The Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History originated from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, initially intended to house the biological and anthropological collections assembled for the fair. Originally known as the Columbian Museum of Chicago, it was later renamed in 1905 to honor Marshall Field, the department store magnate whose generous contribution ensured the institution's permanence. His vision was to create a world-class center for scientific research and public education in the heart of the Midwest. In 1921, the museum transitioned from its original site in Jackson Park to its current iconic home on Chicago's Museum Campus. The neoclassical building, designed by the firm of Daniel Burnham, was constructed using white Georgia marble and stands as a testament to the City Beautiful movement. This relocation allowed the museum to expand its galleries and better serve the growing population of Chicago, becoming a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape. Today, the Field Museum stands as one of the largest and most respected natural history museums globally, housing a collection of over 40 million artifacts and specimens. From the groundbreaking discovery of Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex ever found, to its leading role in global conservation efforts, the museum continues to inspire curiosity about the natural world. It remains a vital hub for scientific discovery, training the next generation of researchers while engaging millions of visitors each year.