Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum facts for kids
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| Established | 2009 |
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| Location | Glendive, Montana, United States |
| Founder | Otis Kline |
| Owner | Advancing Creation Truth |
The Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum is a special museum in Glendive, Montana, USA. It was started by Otis Kline and is owned by a group called Advancing Creation Truth. This museum shares a unique view on how the Earth and life began. It teaches that dinosaurs and humans lived at the same time. It also suggests that dinosaurs were on Noah's ark. The museum was built between 2005 and 2009. Many volunteers helped build it.
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About the Museum and Its History
The museum says it is the second-largest "dinosaur museum" in Montana. It is also the only one in the state with a special view on creation. Since it opened in 2009, some scientists have shared their concerns. They point out that Montana is famous for finding many fossils. Scientists worry that this museum is not like a typical science museum.
For example, scientists found soft parts in some fossils. Creationists use this to say that fossils are not as old as scientists think. However, scientists use special tests like radiometric dating to find the true age of fossils. Another example is the Hell Creek Formation nearby. Scientists have studied this area a lot. They believe it was formed by old rivers and floodplains. They have not found proof of a huge flood forming it. Jack Horner, a scientist from the Museum of the Rockies, said, "It's not a science museum at all."
School Field Trips and Discussions
In 2015, there was a discussion about local public schools visiting the museum. Students only saw the dinosaur exhibits. They were not given religious lessons. However, a group called Americans United for Separation of Church and State sent a letter. They said that school trips to religious groups might go against the rules about keeping government and religion separate. When asked, Mr. Kline said he would share his views if a student asked about the age of a fossil.
Who Helped Fund the Museum?
The Gianforte Family Foundation helped the museum. This foundation was started by a businessman named Greg Gianforte. He is now the Governor of Montana. The foundation gave a copy of a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. They also funded an Acrocanthosaurus exhibit. Records show the Gianforte foundation has given about $290,000 to Advancing Creation Truth.
Other Local Museums to Visit
The Glendive area also has other dinosaur exhibits. These exhibits follow what most scientists believe. You can find them at Makoshika State Park and the Frontier Gateway Museum. The Frontier Gateway Museum is the official museum for Dawson County. It is open during the summer months.
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