Thomas McCulloch Museum, Halifax

Nestled within the Biology Department at Dalhousie University, the Thomas McCulloch Museum is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world. At the heart of its collection are meticulously mounted bird specimens, originally prepared in the early 1800s by Thomas McCulloch himself. These birds, presented in the Audubon Style, are more than just preserved artifacts-they are historical markers of McCulloch’s dedication to education and scientific inquiry.

Beyond the avian collection, the museum showcases a diverse array of natural specimens, including fossils, seashells, beetles, butterflies, mushrooms, deep-sea corals, and even live tropical fish. The museum caters not only to researchers in science, history, and art but also to students and the general public who share an interest in the natural world.

Thomas McCulloch, a Scottish Presbyterian minister and educator, first arrived in Nova Scotia in 1805. He was a pioneer in public education, establishing a small school in Pictou in 1803, followed by the Pictou Academy in 1816. Recognizing the value of hands-on learning, McCulloch began collecting plants, animals, and minerals to enrich his students’ understanding of the natural world. In 1838, he was appointed the first principal of Dalhousie College, a position he held until his passing in 1843.

The museum traces its origins to 1884 when Reverend William McCulloch donated his brother’s collection to Dalhousie University. Initially displayed in various hallways and basements, the specimens finally found a permanent home in 1971 with the opening of the Life Sciences Centre, where they have been preserved, displayed, and expanded by the donor’s original agreement with Dalhousie’s Board of Governors.

The Thomas McCulloch Museum stands as a testament to education, exploration, and preservation, offering visitors a chance to engage with centuries-old specimens and contemporary scientific discoveries alike.