KU Natural History Museum | Lawrence

The University of Kansas Natural History Museum, located on the KU campus in Lawrence, Kansas, is a premier institution for research, education, and public engagement in natural history. The museum is operated by the Biodiversity Institute at KU and serves as both a research facility and a public museum, showcasing the rich natural heritage of Kansas, the Midwest, and the wider world.

Historical Background

The museum’s origins date back to the late 19th century, evolving alongside the University of Kansas’ scientific research programs.

It has grown into a leading center for biodiversity research, particularly in areas like vertebrate zoology, entomology, paleontology, and ecology.

The museum is closely tied to KU’s mission of scientific discovery, education, and community engagement, housing millions of specimens used by researchers worldwide.

Collections and Exhibits

The Natural History Museum houses extensive collections that appeal to both researchers and the general public.

1. Fossils and Paleontology

Features specimens ranging from dinosaurs and prehistoric mammals to regional fossil collections.

Notable fossils include Cretaceous marine reptiles, large Pleistocene mammals, and vertebrate fossils found in Kansas and surrounding states.

Exhibits often explore the evolutionary history of life on Earth and paleoenvironments of the Midwest.

2. Vertebrate Zoology

Contains collections of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

Includes both preserved specimens and skeletal displays to illustrate diversity, adaptations, and ecological roles.

3. Invertebrate Zoology

Extensive insect and mollusk collections, documenting biodiversity across Kansas and the globe.

Highlights the ecological importance of invertebrates and the role of KU research in documenting species.

4. Botany and Herbarium

Houses a large herbarium with pressed plant specimens, including rare and endangered species.

Provides insight into plant diversity, ecology, and conservation efforts in Kansas and beyond.

5. Ecology and Biodiversity

Exhibits on Kansas ecosystems, including prairies, wetlands, and forests.

Interactive displays educate visitors about habitat preservation, species interactions, and environmental challenges.

Visitor Experience

The museum is designed to be educational and engaging, with both permanent and rotating exhibits.

Visitors can explore hands-on displays, fossil casts, mounted animal specimens, and life-size dioramas.

Programs for school groups and families include guided tours, workshops, and interactive demonstrations.

Public lectures and special events often feature KU researchers discussing ongoing studies in ecology, evolution, and conservation biology.

Research and Education

The museum is not only a public space but also a world-class research center.

KU scientists use the collections to study species distribution, evolutionary biology, paleontology, and climate change.

The museum plays a key role in training graduate and undergraduate students, providing access to specimens and research facilities.

Location and Campus Integration

Situated on the University of Kansas Hill Campus in Lawrence, the museum is easily accessible from other university landmarks.

It complements other KU cultural institutions, such as the Spencer Museum of Art and the Biodiversity Institute, creating a rich educational environment for visitors.

The KU Natural History Museum combines scientific research, education, and public outreach, making it a vital resource for both the university and the broader community. Its exhibits and collections offer a detailed window into the natural world, the history of life on Earth, and the biodiversity of Kansas and beyond.