Reptilian array slithers into MOR following Science Inquiry, Extreme History lectures
Museum of the Rockies has turned its calendar to a new year, returning to business as usual with regular public events to accompany its many exhibits. Here’s a look at some upcoming happenings at our neighborhood museum.
The next Science Inquiry Lecture, “The Yellowstone Volcano: News from the Front,” takes place Wednesday, January 15th. The presentation will begin at 7pm.
What does front line research tell us about the current state of the immense volcano that makes up much of Yellowstone National Park? Dr. Michael Poland, Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, will discuss the geologic hazards of the Yellowstone region, activity that has been recorded in 2019, and recent research into how the Yellowstone volcanic system works.
On Thursday, January 16th, the Extreme History Project Lecture series continues with “The Sort Who Make Good Citizens: Empire, An African American Community in Wyoming, 1908–1920.” Andi Powers, a PhD candidate in American Studies at MSU, will present at 6pm. Her research focuses on performances of race, including blackface and redface, in the West.
The lecture will explore Empire, Wyoming, a black homesteading community in eastern Wyoming that existed from 1908 until 1920. The community was short-lived, and residents were constantly faced with discrimination including segregation, an enduring local appetite for blackface minstrelsy, and the lynching of one of their residents. Ultimately, the promise of the Equality State failed to materialize for the black residents of Empire.
Please note: All held in Hager Auditorium, public lectures have a limited capacity and are free of admission on a first come, first served basis. Doors open 30 minutes prior to each. Attendees may not save seats for others.
Also at MOR, a scaly new exhibit! Reptiles: The Beautiful and the Deadly opens January 25th. Reptiles have enduring appeal, and this interactive zoological exhibition will bring you eye to eye with living species from around the world. Deadly snakes, colorful lizards, unusual turtles and rugged crocodilians are exhibited in naturalistic habitats. You can “milk” a viper, learn to speak croc in under five minutes, and test your knowledge with “Turtle Trivia” or “Lizard Wizard.” An experienced zoo professional remains with the exhibit to care for the living collection. Members: join for an exclusive preview reception from 5:30–7pm on Jan. 24th to check out the new exhibit before it opens to the public!
For more information about these events and the Museum exhibits, visit www.museumoftherockies.org. •