Permanent Exhibits
Natural History Gallery
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The Natural History Gallery gives visitors a realistic look at the diversity of environments and species that are found in the Cayman Islands. In this gallery, a mixture of panels, dioramas, taxidermy, and interactive features offers visitors a variety of interpretive options.
Sea Geology:
An interpretive panel and display of authentic fossils, rocks, and geological cross section model which details the islands’ place within the framework of the world’s geological history and evolution. Bathymetric Model and Photo Mural: The undersea world of mountains and canyons surrounding the Islands and a spectacular satellite photograph of the three Islands is included in this exhibit.
Bathymetric Model and Photo Mural:
The undersea world of mountains and canyons surrounding the Islands and a spectacular satellite photograph of the three Islands is included in this exhibit.
Coral Reef Model:
The diversity of the island’s undersea life, inclusive of ocean backdrop and models of marine life, is displayed on a video screen visible through an opening in the reef which carries looping footage of reef life. Submarine Model and Audio Visual The half-model yellow submarine voyages realistically beneath the ocean waves revealing an exciting underwater video. The submarine cruises past deep ocean life such as sharks and dolphins.
Submarine Model and Audio Visual
The half-model yellow submarine voyages realistically beneath the ocean waves revealing an exciting underwater video. The submarine cruises past deep ocean life such as sharks and dolphins.
Natural History Gallery
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Turtle Nesting Diorama
Through the art of taxidermy and modeling, visitors enjoy a close-up view of the distinctive characteristics of the sea turtle and its often mysterious nesting behavior. Panels offer information about the history and life cycle of the species.
Mosaic of Habitats:
Displaying an array of environments that make up these islands, this exhibit includes a topographic model, a mural of the islands cross-section and specimen cases featuring models of key species, such as the wild banana orchid. Pieces of local wood are left uncovered, inviting visitors to feel the differences in grain and texture.
Mangrove Diorama:
Models of varying mangrove species found in this wetland environment with a console offering interpretive text and graphics, related to the delicate ecosystem created.
Rocky-shore, Cliff-rock Diorama:
An up-close view of the unique pinnacle-rock habitat found on Cayman; typical sinkholes within the rocky terrain as well as scenic coastal woodland are featured. Models of a variety of species, such as the blue iguana, are showcased.
Walk Through Cave
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Walk-through Cave:
The only living mammals endemic to the Cayman Islands – bats – are the highlight of this realistic recreation of life within a terrestrial cave. Models of cave creatures are hidden within the darkened cavern.
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Cultural History Gallery
Take a virtual tour of our collections
The history panels in the stairwell serve as an introduction to the Cultural History Gallery, which offers exhibits on the political and judicial systems, life in the Islands, and seafaring history. Technological effects include pushbutton consoles allowing visitors to choose between separate short topic videos, while light programmes spotlight different aspects of the gallery.
The Old Court:
The judicial system is authentically interpreted in the original raised judges’ platform. Video productions capture historic events such as a trial relating to the most famous maritime event in the Cayman Islands, the Wreck of the Ten Sail, an important international fishing dispute, and a slave court hearing involving the famous Long Celia.
Cultural Vignettes:
Cultural Vignettes
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Cultural Vignettes examine three aspects of Caymanian life – church, home and industries. Each dynamic display includes background mural, furnishings and historical items recreating the aspect’s history and culture.
Panels:
The cultural Vignette themes are replicated in a nearby series of large photo panels supplemented by a collage of historical images. Other panels feature bush medicine, island industries, shipbuilding, and merchants and trade.
Life on the Sea Diorama:
This popular exhibit recreates a Caymanian beach, featuring the “Old Seaman” animatronics character in a typical Caymanian “Cat Boat”. Two audio consoles enable pushbutton operation of its audio programme. Evolution of Turtling Industry: A wall panel about Cayman’s once-abundant sea turtle population highlights the history and future of the Cayman Islands’ fishing industry, along with the importance of regulation and conservation.
Evolution of Turtling Industry:
A wall panel about Cayman’s once-abundant sea turtle population highlights the history and future of the Cayman Islands’ fishing industry, along with the importance of regulation and conservation.
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