Imagination Station Science Museum facts for kids
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| Established | 1989 |
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| Location | 224 Nash Street SE, Wilson, North Carolina |
The Imagination Station Science & History Museum is a fun, interactive museum located in downtown Wilson, North Carolina. You can find it at 224 Nash Street SE. This museum is special because it's inside an old building that used to be the Wilson Federal Building. This building was once a post office and even a federal courthouse! One of the old courtrooms is now called the "Science Courtroom." It's used for exciting science shows and history lessons.
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About the Museum
The Imagination Station is a non-profit organization. This means it's not trying to make money, but instead, it uses all its funds to help people learn. Its main goal is to teach kids and adults about science and history in a hands-on way. They do this through cool exhibits, educational programs, and special events for the community.
The museum also has a program called "Science & History on Wheels" (SHOW). This program takes science demonstrations and history lessons directly to schools and other groups all over eastern North Carolina. It's like the museum comes to you!
Museum History Highlights
The Imagination Station Science & History Museum has an interesting history. Here are some key moments:
How the Museum Started
- 1989 The group "Science Museums of Wilson Inc." was founded, and the Imagination Station began.
- 1990 Bill F. Streeter became the museum's first Executive Director.
- 1991 Vincent D. Adkins joined as the first Exhibits Manager and Builder.
- 1992 The Imagination Station Science Museum officially opened its doors to the public!
Changes and Growth
Over the years, the museum has had several leaders:
- 1994 Jim Henley became the second Executive Director.
- 1996 Todd Boyette became the third Executive Director.
- 1999 Jerry Reynolds became the fourth Executive Director.
Overcoming Challenges
- 2000 A fire happened in the "Tropical Trek Exhibit" on the second floor. This caused damage to the building.
- 2000-2002 Because of the fire, the museum had to move to a smaller, temporary location for two years.
- 2002 The Imagination Station proudly reopened in its original building!
- 2003 Karl L. McKinnon became the fifth Executive Director.
- 2007 Jonathan Brooks became the sixth Executive Director.
New Additions and Leadership
- 2009 The North Carolina Museum of The Coastal Plain opened on the third floor of the Imagination Station building.
- 2013 Nancy Van Dolsen became the seventh Executive Director.
- 2020 Jennifer B. Byrd became the eighth Executive Director.
- 2023 Brooke Bissette Farmer became the museum's ninth Executive Director. She is the current director.
