Fossils and family science – fun at the museum

The Union County Heritage Museum in New Albany was the place to be on Saturday, June 8th. A large crowd of locals and non-locals came out to attend the Fossil Road Show & Family Science Day.

Making Elephant toothpaste.

A new feature this year, hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) related learning stations were specially designed to catch the interest of the kids. And it seemed to be a successful addition. Volunteers (and some parents) guided the way to learning about the human body, electric circuits, chemical reactions, etc.

Lots of parents made the rounds with their children. Everyone wanted to see the gem and mineral collections, examine fossils and other artifacts, participate in family-oriented science activities. And, of course, watch the ever-popular geode cracker at work.

Getting set to crack a big geode.

Family inspection of the hidden treasure.

Gorge Phillips, MS Museum of Natural Science paleontologist, enthusiastically spoke about dinosaurs that roamed Mississippi ages ago, gave tips on fossil hunting and answered audience questions on a variety of subjects. Additionally, he was available to identify fossils and other finds brought in by visitors.

George Phillips helps a fossil collector identify her finds.

Mississippi dinosaurs always get a lot of attention.

The Union County Historical Society, along with Museum Director, Jill Smith, and her employees, volunteers and community partners have created an outstanding community asset. The Union County Heritage Museum is a recognized leader in the endeavor of conserving local historical artifacts, as well as in engaging, educating and enriching the community.

Below: Saphira Heatherly cracks a geode, while being encouraged by her mother and her sister, Amara.

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