Cook's Natural Science Museum Celebrates 25th Anniversary

DECATUR, Ala. — The Cook’s Natural Science Museum is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year.

HISTORY. While it may be true that Cook's Natural Science Museum began with a few "bug collections" in the 1960s, it has grown to include over a hundred exhibits of mounted birds and animals, sea shells, coral, rocks, minerals, and yes, insects.

In 1968, a 1,200 square foot portion of Cook's warehouse complex was devoted to housing the collections, which by then, included mounted birds and animals. Teachers, students and civic groups were encouraged to request a tour.

In 1980, a 5,000-square-foot building, located at 412 13th Street, S.E., Decatur, Alabama, was constructed to house the ever-expanding collections. At this time, Cook's hired personnel to operate the museum and keep it open seven days a week so more people could enjoy God's wonderful creation. The museum's doors were opened to the public on April 1, 1980.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY. Admission has always been free, as a way of thanking the communities Cook's serves. What started as a small collection of insects to train pest control technicians has become a large educational center for students and tourists. The museum receives over 27,000 visitors annually, including tourists and students of all ages.

In addition to the exhibits, nature videos are shown and a gift shop is available. School children are able to take home a 25¢ polished stone or rubber snake as a souvenir. Many other nicer gift items and home accessories also are available.