The Octagon at Amherst College, Museum and observatory at Amherst College, Massachusetts, United States
The Octagon features an elegant eight-sided architectural design with a domed observatory and dedicated spaces for natural history collections and scientific instruments.
Edward Hitchcock commissioned architect Henry A. Sykes to construct this educational facility between 1847 and 1848 to serve both astronomical and museum purposes.
The structure represents the intersection of educational advancement and scientific discovery in 19th-century American academic institutions, merging multiple disciplines under one roof.
Visitors can explore the natural history collections and astronomical instruments while learning about the scientific developments of early American higher education.
The foundation, built by Andrew Lawrence, incorporates specific structural elements designed to support precise astronomical measurements and observations.
Location: Massachusetts
GPS coordinates: 42.37140,-72.51910
Latest update: March 3, 2025 03:41
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