Field Museum of Natural History - Chicago, IL

The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago is one of Americas oldest and largest museums incorporated in September of 1893.

The Museum also supports Academic Affairs to promote and fund research/writing programs in Anthropology, Botany, Geology, and Zoology.

This museum is of the type most people think of upon hearing the word museum, the large old building full of artifacts from around the world, displayed to educate the public on various cultural histories, from the point of view of the exhibitor! Instead of focusing on the exhibits, we went behind the scenes to look at questions pertaining to accessioning, preservation, and conservation of the artifacts.

Artifacts are collected from all over the world, but are only acquired from legitimate sources with a paper trail to insure holdings are legally held. While the museum holds thousands of items, many pieces remain property of various cultural tribes and are lent out for ceremonial rites and purposes, then returned to the museum for safe keeping.

The purpose of the museum focuses on education and research, however, efforts in fund raising have increased because while the need for community education increases, state and federal monies decrease. With increasing competition from outside activities the museum tends to focus on the Exhibit rather than the Research, to increase public interest and revenue.

The museum carries admission fees, but they also have many educational programs for school children that are free of charge. I encourage you to check out the website for additional information.