The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia offers visitors a unique experience that is both educational and entertaining. Founded in 1855, this natural history museum, educational center, and library is dedicated to preserving and displaying natural history from various time periods.
Housed in a National Historic Landmark in North Philadelphia, the museum features original displays and specimens from the 19th century. Susan Glassman, the museum’s executive director, highlights the fact that many of the displays have remained unchanged since the 1890s, providing visitors with a glimpse into how people in the past viewed the natural world.
One of the key aspects of the Wagner is its commitment to offering free educational programs for both children and adults. Glassman notes that access to science and the wonders of the natural world has always been at the core of their mission. The most rewarding part of her work is seeing the sense of wonder that visitors, especially children, experience when they explore their exhibits.
To learn more about the Wagner Free Institute of Science and its offerings, visit their website at wagnerfreeinstitute.org.