Fossil Road Show a big hit once again at Union County Heritage Museum

Yesterday’s Fossil Road Show at the Union County Heritage Museum had a fantastic turnout with an enthusiastic crowd of all ages. There was an especially strong contingent of young aspiring paleontologists and geologists. On display were wonderful fossil and mineral finds found in Mississippi, many in Northeast Mississippi, including bones from a plesiosaur found in Blue Springs. Other attractions included a rock-painting station and a booth with special lights to display the fluorescent properties of some minerals.

Mason and his mom Chasidy at the Fossil Road Show

Mason shows off his treasures, a trilobite and teeth from ancient sea creatures.

Great crowd at the at the Fossil Road Show.

Fossil Road Show attendees view exhibits and speak with experts.

Attendees check out the minerals and other items for sale.

Experts from the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (MMNS) in Jackson and the Mississippi Gem and Mineral Society were also on hand to identify local fossil finds brought in by visitors. Dozens of children and a good many adults came in to learn more about their treasures. One of these was young Mason Robinson who came in with some particularly good finds, including several sharks’ teeth. Mason also brought in a trilobite which was between 390-410 million years old.

George Phillips, Curator of Paleontology at MMNS, gave an engaging presentation about finds of fossil plants throughout Mississippi. Such finds can tell paleontologists and geologists a great deal about what the environment was like many millions of years ago. The exhibit presented many opportunities for young people to learn about the wonders to be found in nature and even in their own Mississippi backyard.

For more exciting exhibits and science-related activities for children, please check out the Union County Heritage Museum’s website by clicking here.