Turner Neal Museum of Natural History Displays Many Collections

Staff Writer

Courtesy of Uamont.edu

   The University of Arkansas-Monticello’s Turner Neal Museum of Natural History displays collections of North America, African big game animals, minerals and plants. 

   The museum is located on the UAM campus, just behind the Science Center.

   The museum was named after Turner Neal of McGehee who donated a collection of big game and 197 acres of land to help UAM pay for the museum.

   The collection of vertebrates and a herbarium are also in the museum. The vertebrate specimens are on loan to qualified research scientists at other institutions. The museum helps others to advance their research.

   The Pomeroy Planetarium, located inside the museum, is only one of four planetariums in the state. It focuses primarily on Southeast Arkansas, but has a sizable collection from other areas. The planetarium sponsors presentations on the structure and diversity of the universe.

   Plans are currently being made to expand the museum.

   “I know there is a tremendous potential here. I think it could be really great," said Carol Trana, instuctor of Biology. She said she also believes the museum to be a real resource to the community.

   The museum houses two live animals, a python and an alligator, but has many preserved animals on display. There are many rocks and minerals on display as well.

   “I think it’s a great opportunity for the kids of Southeast Arkansas," said Jim Edson, museum director.

   The museum welcomes visitors and is used for field trips from neighboring schools and schools all over the Southeast. It is used for learning, research and much more.

   The museum is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. as long as there is a faculty member inside. The best way to see the museum is by calling 460-1016 and making an appointment. The museum also gives tours and planetarium shows. To learn more about the museum, please visit http://www.uamont.edu/Math_and_Sciences/museum/museum.html.

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