Closure of America's Oldest Natural History Museum Announced

The Academy of Natural Sciences, the oldest natural history museum in the United States, announced on September 1, 2025, that it will close permanently at the end of the month. Established in 1828, the museum has faced financial challenges, including reduced attendance and funding cuts, leading to a decrease in operating hours and staff layoffs.

The museum is known for housing the first mounted dinosaur skeleton, Hadrosaurus foulkii, which drew significant crowds in its early years. Despite a recent restoration of the dinosaur display, the institution's financial struggles prompted the decision to close, raising questions about the future of its extensive collections.

Public reaction to the closure announcement has been largely negative, with many expressing sadness over the loss of a beloved institution that inspired generations. Following the announcement, Drexel University, which has been affiliated with the museum since 2011, indicated plans to explore options for the museum's collections and leadership, while also considering the sale of the museum building.