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New Traveling Exhibition- Trilobite Treasures: Arthropods of the Ancient Seas

Calling all science lovers, you won’t want to miss the newest traveling exhibition coming to Cranbrook Institute of Science. Trilobite Treasures: Arthropods of the Ancient Seas will open to the public Wednesday, May 31, 2023. This family-friendly exhibit will take visitors on a journey through the prehistoric life of the ancient seas. A time when arthropods, more specifically trilobites were plentiful. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the unique life and death of these fine Paleozoic creatures, meaning ancient life, that once roamed the Earth during the Cambrian Period, commonly known as the Age of Trilobites. This exhibit will be on display at the Institute of Science until Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. 

About Trilobite Treasures: Arthropods of the Ancient Seas

Fossil enthusiasts and families of all ages can explore these ancient specimens in one place. The exhibit will educate guests on the history of these unique creatures, including: 

  • Trilobites of Caleb’s Quarry, located in New York, offers a unique snapshot of a local mass mortality
  • Trilobites of St. Petersburg, Russia
  • A look at trilobites before and after
  • A trilobite mass mortality plate from the Czech Republic
  • Artifacts and tools of the trade
  • Ancient sea murals

Paleo Joe is an award winning paleontologist, fossil hunter and the curator of this exhibit. Since moving to Michigan in the early 90s, Paleo Joe has taught classes on fossils in many elementary and middle schools. 

“Ancient fossils have brought geology and fossil lovers to Michigan for years, and we are thrilled to bring this dynamic and educational exhibition to the Institute,”said Michael D. Stafford, Ph.D., Director of Cranbrook Institute of Science.“Families of all ages will have the chance to experience the Age of the Trilobites, which is somewhat of a mystery to many people. People will walk away from this show with a much deeper understanding of what a trilobite is, the impact this species had on the ancient world and how nothing like them exists today.” 

Trilobite Treasures: Arthropods of the Ancient Seas is open during regular museum hours and has an additional cost, $1 – $3 per person, in addition to general museum admission.

For additional information on Trilobite Treasures: Arthropods of the Ancient Seas please visit: https://science.cranbrook.edu/explore/exhibits/trilobite

About Cranbrook Institute of Science

Cranbrook Institute of Science, Michigan’s Museum of Natural History, located in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. has been engaging learners of all ages and interests in educational programs and experiences since 1930. The Institute of Science seeks to draw science and education together through permanent exhibits, its traveling exhibit hall, interactive programs including exploreLAB, special events, field trips, and more than 20,000 artifacts on display. With more than 200,000 visitors each year, Cranbrook Institute of Science continues to play a significant role in building a scientifically literate public in astronomy, physics, chemistry, and other sciences. For information about admission pricing, museum hours, and becoming a member call 248.645.3200 or visit http://science.cranbrook.edu

Cranbrook Institute of Science is a part of Cranbrook Educational Community; a 501(c)3 non-profit whose National Historic Landmark campus also includes Cranbrook Academy of Art, Cranbrook Art Museum, Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research, Cranbrook House & Gardens, Cranbrook Schools, and other affiliated cultural and educational programs.