Whiteside Museum of Natural History, Seymour TX
A Decade of Discovery: The Whiteside Museum of Natural History Expands in Seymour, Texas
Seymour, Texas, may be a small town, but it holds a world-class treasure within its borders—the Whiteside Museum of Natural History (WMNH). Celebrating its 11th anniversary, the museum has become a beacon of scientific discovery, education, and family-friendly exploration. Over the past decade, WMNH has made remarkable strides in the museum industry and the field of paleontology, offering visitors an unparalleled experience in uncovering the prehistoric past. However, what truly makes the Whiteside Museum special is the joy it brings to families and guests who walk through its doors, marveling at fossils that tell the story of life millions of years ago.
A Bigger and Better WMNH
A 9,000-square-foot expansion will be unveiled June 6, 2025, during Permian Fest, doubling the museum’s size and significantly enhancing the visitor experience. This expansion promises to take guests deeper into the prehistoric world and the event will provide an even more immersive and interactive journey through time.
“We’re going to have three days of lectures, vendors and food trucks,” Holly Simon, assistant director. “In addition to Permian Fest, we’re going to be unveiling our museum expansion that’s essentially going to be doubling the museum in size.”
The highlight of the expansion is the enhanced Paleontology Fossil Preparation Lab, where visitors can watch scientists at work and even participate in fossil preparation. This hands-on experience allows guests to engage directly with paleontology, fostering a deeper appreciation for the field and the fossils that define it.
“We’re making the lab more interactive by having microscope teaching stations where we’ll be able to bring kids in the lab and show them how we clean fossils, so that’s going to be really exciting,” she said. “In addition to that, we are unveiling a Sundell Hall of Mammals.”
The Sundell Hall of Mammals will showcase both modern and prehistoric species, bridging the gap between past and present wildlife and deepening our understanding of biodiversity. Additionally, a new Bakker Hall of Dinosaurs will introduce exhibits featuring never-before-seen specimens, bringing the giants of the past to life in an awe-inspiring display.
This expansion is more than just an addition to the museum—it’s a major draw for Seymour and surrounding communities. By broadening public knowledge of paleontology and science, the Whiteside Museum continues to serve as an educational hub for North Texas and beyond.
A Bright Future for WMNH and Seymour
As the Whiteside Museum of Natural History enters its second decade, the future looks brighter than ever. The museum’s continued growth not only elevates Seymour’s reputation in the museum industry but also enhances the cultural and educational opportunities available in the region. With new exhibits, an expanded fossil lab, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, WMNH is poised to inspire future generations of scientists, explorers, and curious minds.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time visitor, there has never been a better time to experience the Whiteside Museum of Natural History. Join us in celebrating a decade of discovery and looking ahead to an even more exciting future. Plan your visit today and be part of a museum that is making history—one fossil at a time.
Whiteside Museum of Natural History
310 N Washington St
Seymour, TX 76380
940.889.6548
www.wmnh.org
