May 2001 - Present

Access a digitized version of this exhibit

This exhibition celebrates the fascinating and multifaceted natural history of the Galápagos Islands. The show consists of two sections, information and specimens gathered by scientists, and tourist photographs taken by both professional and lay visitors to the islands.

    The Galápagos Islands are comprised of a group of tiny islands, 600 miles off the western coast of Ecuador. In Spanish "Galápagos" means tortoise, referring of course to the magnificent creatures considered by many to be the island's most famous inhabitants. Others may give finches that honor, as they inspired naturalist Charles Darwin to formulate his revolutionary ideas about evolution and adaptation. Or maybe, the most famous inhabitants are the Marine Iguanas, found nowhere else in the world, or the Lava Gulls, or the Galápagos Hawk—a strong case can be made for any of the native animals or plants, for they are all remarkable. This assemblage of species, combined with the pressures of island living, has created a phenomenal living-experiment supporting the theory of evolution.

    Throughout its history, the islands have attracted a variety of eccentric and determined travelers, some victorious in their personal quest and some defeated by the hardships of island living. Karl Angermayer, a resident from the mid-30's until his death in 1998, was so fond of the Marine Iguanas on Santa Cruz Island, that he built his house in the middle of the colony so that he would never be far from these fascinating creatures. Dozens of colorful characters populate the human history of the Galápagos, including buccaneers, artists, and presidents, a group that has at times been as interesting as the native animals and plants.

    Like all surviving natural areas, the Galápagos are being compromised by encroaching civilization and as a result, they face an uncertain future. As is often the case in our world today, the economic pressures outweigh environmental concerns. The losses are being felt not only by the petrels and the penguins but by humanity in general. As a result of the next man-made catastrophe we stand to lose an invaluable and unique microcosm of our past, present and future.

    Scientific endeavor and curiosity about our origins must be balanced with the very real concerns about the survival of the Galápagos Islands. Visitors to the islands return changed by the experience. The histories, specimens and photographs in this exhibition have been assembled to show our audience the importance of protecting one of our greatest links with the natural world.