Barnum Museum of Natural History

The Barnum Museum of Natural History was a natural history museum on the Tufts University campus in Medford that displayed fossils, minerals, and biological specimens in a two-story building. The collection included preserved items and models that provided insight into various areas of natural science.

The museum was founded in 1883 by P.T. Barnum, the renowned circus entrepreneur who initially filled it with animals from his shows. The original building was destroyed in 1975, but later reconstructed and remains part of the university today.

The museum carries the name of the prominent circus figure who founded it with exotic animals from his performances. These collections drew visitors eager to experience natural diversity firsthand.

The collection is housed today on the Tufts University campus in a building that functions as part of the Biology Department. Visitors should note that access and visiting hours depend on the university's current use of the space.

After the 1975 fire, the remains of Jumbo, the famous elephant from Barnum's collection, were preserved in an urn. This relic became a symbol for the university and has inspired its athletic teams ever since.

Location: Medford

Founders: P. T. Barnum

GPS coordinates: 42.40779,-71.12073

Latest update: December 18, 2025 11:40