Open first Saturdays of each month-on campus of College of Idaho, Boone Hall founded 1891 by William J. Boone. Entomology, fossils, mammals, archaeology
The only natural history museum in the region encompassing southwestern Idaho, southeastern Oregon and northern Nevada, the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History is the premier resource for environmental and natural history education in the region. The museum’s extensive collections and programs support the education of The College of Idaho students and the general public.
The Museum is open to the public Fridays 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm and for workdays (normally the first Saturday of each month, moved to the second Saturday to accommodate holidays). Entry is through the main entrance to Boone Science Hall at the first level. The Museum is located downstairs in the basement and has a small giftshop. To arrange for group tours contact Kinga Britschgi at 208.459.5211 or [email protected].
The "OJSMNH" serves three main purposes: to support the educational programs at The College of Idaho, to provide a resource to the community, and to house resources for scientific research.
Museum Holdings Include:
Invertebrates, including Snake River mollusks and one of the world's largest collections of insects from Baja California Vertebrates (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds), including the largest collection of modern fishes in Idaho. Paleontological collections (especially fossil leaves and fishes);
Native American archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, including a Luther Douglas sand paintings; Artifacts from ancient Egypt and Rome including a kestrel mummy;
Contact for Tours: Kinga Britschgi at 208.459.5211 or [email protected].
