The Berkshire Museum was founded in 1903 by Zenas Crane, the grandson of the founder of Crane & Company. When he built the museum, his vision was to create an inviting environment for everyone, not just the elite. He sought to use the museum’s varied collection to enrich, educate and delight the county’s citizens of all ages. This vision guides the museum to this day. At the heart of the museum’s mission is a commitment to playing an active cultural and educational role in the community.

“Wally,” our life-size front lawn-dwelling stegosaurus, was constructed for the Sinclair Dinoland Pavilion at the 1964-65 World’s Fair by the renowned wildlife sculptor Louis Paul Jonas. He welcomes visitors to the only art, natural science and history museum in Western Massachusetts. Fourteen galleries, an aquarium, a 291 seat fully equipped, air conditioned theater, classrooms and a museum store make up the Berkshire Museum. At the Berkshire Museum, you will find:

* Thirteen galleries
* Aquarium featuring a touch tank
* 291 seat air conditioned theater
* Classrooms
* The Museum Store features unique, affordable items for the whole family, including a large selection of educational games and toys for kids.

MISSION

The mission of the Berkshire Museum is to enrich, inspire and educate through interactions with the arts, history and the natural world.