Apiary Laboratory

The Apiary Laboratory is a three-story research building at the University of Massachusetts Amherst dedicated to studying pollinators and their ecology. The structure contains specialized rooms including extraction facilities, workshops, and areas where researchers work directly with bee colonies.

The building was established in 1912 when Massachusetts Agricultural College launched its effort to create formal beekeeping education in the United States. This founding moment represented a shift toward treating beekeeping as a serious academic discipline rather than a simple craft.

This place transformed beekeeping from a hobby into a serious field of study, drawing students interested in how pollinators support agriculture and ecosystems. Visitors can observe how the research directly connects to the daily work of farmers and gardeners.

The building is actively used for research and teaching, so visits depend on the facility's operating schedule. Those interested in observing the work should contact the university beforehand to arrange access and understand the best times to visit.

This was the first building in the United States constructed specifically for beekeeping instruction, setting a precedent for academic research in this field. The fact that an entire structure was devoted to this practical training shows how seriously early scientists took this work.

Location: Massachusetts

Inception: 1912

Floors above the ground: 3

GPS coordinates: 42.38840,-72.52040

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40