Unique Museum Collection Embarks on a Journey, Spreading Historical Wonder
Introduction
The Delbridge Museum of Natural History, nestled within the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has closed its doors due to the discovery of hazardous levels of arsenic in its renowned taxidermied animal collection. This has prompted a momentous decision to donate the specimens to various reputable institutions across the United States, ensuring their preservation and continued educational value.
The Brockhouse Collection: A Treasure Trove of Taxidermy
The Brockhouse Collection, comprising 152 meticulously taxidermied animals, stands as one of the Midwest’s most extensive and captivating collections of its kind. Its origins can be traced back to the 1940s, encompassing an array of primates, reptiles, equines, and felines. The collection has long been a source of enchantment and educational inspiration for countless visitors.
Preservation Concerns and Closure
Until the 1980s, the use of potent chemicals such as arsenic and asbestos was prevalent in taxidermy practices. While precautions were implemented at the museum to safeguard visitors and preserve the mounts, concerns arose about the aging process and the potential for increased chemical exposure. This led to the decision to close the museum indefinitely.
Donation to Respected Institutions
The Sioux Falls City Council has unanimously approved a resolution to gift the majority of the Brockhouse Collection to the University of Notre Dame Museum of Biodiversity in Indiana. Thirty-three specimens will find a new home at the Oddities Museum, Inc. in Georgia, while two will be donated to the Institute for Natural History Arts Inc. in New Jersey.
Ensuring Public Safety and Preservation
The decision to donate the collection not only ensures its preservation but also guarantees that it will continue to be available for public viewing under strict safety protocols. The new homes will provide specialized display techniques, such as glass cases, to protect the mounts from physical contact and prevent the spread of any potentially harmful chemicals.
Balancing Sentiment and Legacy
Members of the Sioux Falls City Council expressed a mix of disappointment and understanding regarding the departure of the collection. While saddened to see it leave, they acknowledged the importance of prioritizing public safety and entrusting the care of the specimens to institutions with the expertise and resources to preserve them for future generations.
A New Chapter for the Collection
At their new homes, the Brockhouse Collection will continue to inspire awe and wonder. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with these extraordinary specimens, gaining insights into the diversity and beauty of the natural world. The collection’s legacy will endure, fostering a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation and the preservation of our natural heritage.
Conclusion
The closure of the Delbridge Museum of Natural History marks a bittersweet chapter in the history of Sioux Falls. Yet, the donation of the Brockhouse Collection to esteemed institutions across the nation ensures that these remarkable specimens will continue to ignite curiosity and inspire generations to come. Their new homes will provide a safe and educational environment where the collection can flourish, fulfilling its mission of connecting people with the wonders of the natural world.
