The James Ford Bell Museum of Natural History was founded in 1872 as the Zoological Museum. In 1940, it moved into this magnificent Moderne building on the University of Minnesota’s Minneapolis campus. Learn more about Clarence H. Johnston, Jr.’s design at the placeography website.
The rear of the Bell Museum features an addition designed by Cavin & Page Architects. Dedicated in 1971, it is connected to the original with a glass conservatory.
I love this perspective featuring the junction between the lobby, exhibit areas, and auditorium. The tower is not easily seen from the front of the building.
An amazing light fixture near the front entrance.
Outstanding Moderne details around the elevator (just look past the trash bins).
A long exhibit hall in the Bell Museum of Natural History.
Many of the Bell’s exhibits and dioramas will be relocated to their new building and planetarium, opening on the University’s Saint Paul campus in 2018. According to one of the staff members, the historic building will be rehabbed for a new educational use.
Photos taken by Barbara A.M. Howard. All rights reserved.
