Putnam Museum

The Putnam Museum is a science and history museum in Davenport divided into four exhibit halls featuring natural history collections, regional heritage, world cultures, and interactive science displays. The layout guides visitors through different areas of knowledge, allowing them to explore nature, local history, and global perspectives in one place.

The museum was founded in 1867 as a scientific association and gradually became an educational center serving the Quad Cities region. This growth reflected the community's growing interest in learning about science, nature, and local history.

The World Culture Gallery displays objects from societies around the globe, including an Egyptian mummy and ceremonial pieces that show how different communities lived and expressed their beliefs.

The museum is located in Davenport and offers reduced admission rates through the Museums for All program. Plan to spend several hours exploring the four halls, as there is substantial content in each section.

The Black Earth and Big River exhibition shows the ecosystems of the Upper Mississippi River Valley through detailed natural recreations. This section offers a rare look at how water systems and land areas interact in this specific region.