Learn about the rich history of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, the parent organization of the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
View artifacts and specimens from our 165-year-old collections, and watch a video of the history of the Academy and some of its oldest programs in Heritage of the Chicago Academy of Sciences. Look through cases showcasing the beauty of preserved specimens and artifacts, meticulously crafted scientific models, archival photos, and more.
Please note: Heritage of the Chicago Academy of Sciences will close to the public on November 28 as we begin work on on the Sustainability Center.
A Closer Look
Museum Timeline
A lot has happened between the time of our founding and present day! Get a small glimpse into our history via the interactive timeline below. Scroll and click through to explore special dates in our history, get a closer look at our founders, and learn more about some of the influential scientists, educators, and leaders who have helped our institution grow and flourish.
Keep Exploring
The Chicago Academy of Sciences dates back nearly as far as the City of Chicago itself! As a result, many of the historic events that impacted the city have shaped our own institutional history. Learn more about how the Academy was founded and how we got our start in Lincoln Park by checking out the episode of Curious By Nature below.
Of course, our story doesn’t stop there. How has our work changed over the years? Have our collections and mission changed? Find out in the special Founders’ Day edition of Curious By Nature below!
