Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University to close permanently

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the oldest natural history museum in the Americas, will permanently close on September 27. The decision follows declining attendance and rising operational costs. Drexel University leadership stated that post-pandemic visitation trends and increasing expenses have created fundamental economic challenges that threaten the institution’s ability to fulfill its mission.

Founded in 1812, the museum holds a massive collection of over 19 million biological specimens, including one of the world’s largest bird collections and the country’s fourth-largest mollusk collection. It is also well-known for its Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton and its history of being the first to display a mounted dinosaur to the public.

The closure has sparked public outcry, with hundreds of people rallying outside the museum in opposition. While the museum is closing, leadership has stated plans to relocate the renowned collections and fossils to a different location for future display.