Natural History Museum

Natural Heritage

Originally built in 1936, the Museum was designed to showcase Texas wildlife through immersive dioramas depicting the state's diverse landscapes, plants, and animals. These exhibits serve as a remarkable public record of Texas at a pivotal moment in its environmental history.

Over the past ninety years, Texas has experienced significant growth and development, transforming many of the natural environments represented in the dioramas. Today, these exhibits offer visitors a rare glimpse into the state's ecological past while highlighting the importance of conservation, stewardship, and preserving Texas' natural heritage for future generations.

Cultural Heritage

The Museum's wildlife dioramas are not only important scientific and educational resources, they are also significant works of Texas cultural history.

The fifty murals that form the backdrop of the exhibits represent an extraordinary collection of Regionalist artwork created by prominent Dallas artists. Among them was Olin Travis, founder of the Dallas Art Institute and mentor to many members of the renowned Dallas Nine. Other contributing artists, including Granville Bruce and Reveau Bassett, were trained at some of the nation's most respected art institutions and helped shape the artistic legacy of Texas.

Together, the dioramas and murals tell a uniquely Texas story through both art and nature, preserving a cultural treasure that continues to educate and inspire visitors.