Monday, July 13, 2009

Museum Monday


The Alabama Museum of Natural History is in Smith Hall at the University of Alabama. The AMNH is celebrating its 100th year this year.
The lovely specimen hanging from the ceiling is the state fossil of Alabama, Basilosaurus cetoides. Here's a little closer shot. Note the grand staircase in the background. Smith Hall is an amazing building. Click to enlarge so you can enjoy the detailed moldings around the gallery and the skylight ceiling.

5 comments:

Janet said...

Gosh, I've never been there! Gorgeous interior. Do you know where this fossil was found?

penny said...

What a beautiful museum and that staircase is so grand. The fossil is also very spectacular. I too enjoy visiting museums, thanks for the journey.

Halcyon said...

Love the architecture!

Lowell said...

What a lovely building. I must say I was a bit surprised about the state fossil...

I didn't know states had state fossils. I wonder what Florida's is. Oh, never mind. Jeb Bush! ;-)

D said...

Rambling Round - Choctaw, Clarke and Washington counties
There's actually a basilosaurus fossil from Alabama at the Smithsonian!
Pam - you're welcome! It was a fun day.
Halcyon - I know! I'm always looking at the details in the building as much as the exhibits.
Jacob - I didn't know we had an official state fossil either. Ha! is JEB that old?