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 super fun, hands-on museum in downtown Wilson, North Carolina. You can find it at 224 Nash Street SE. This cool museum is inside an old building called the Wilson Federal Building. It used to be a post office and even a courthouse back in 1928! Imagine learning science in a place where important court cases once happened. One of the old courtrooms is now a "Science Courtroom," where you can watch awesome science shows and learn about history.
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About the Museum
The Imagination Station is a special place where you can explore science and history. It's an "interactive" museum, which means you get to touch, try, and discover things yourself. It's not just about looking at exhibits; it's about getting involved!
This museum is a non-profit organization. This means it's not trying to make money. Instead, its main goal is to teach people about science and history in a fun, informal way. They do this through all their cool exhibits, special learning programs, and events for the community.
Science and History on Wheels
The museum also has an amazing outreach program called "Science & History on Wheels," or SHOW. If you can't come to the museum, the museum can come to you! The SHOW team brings exciting science demonstrations and history programs right to classrooms and other groups all over eastern North Carolina. It's like a traveling science show!
Museum's Journey Through Time
The Imagination Station has an interesting history, full of growth and even a challenge or two.
How It Started
The idea for the museum began in 1989 when "Science Museums of Wilson Inc." was founded. Just a few years later, in 1992, the Imagination Station Science Museum officially opened its doors to the public. It quickly became a popular spot for learning and fun.
A Big Challenge: The Fire
In the early 2000s, something unexpected happened. A fire broke out in the building, specifically in the "Tropical Trek Exhibit" on the second floor. This fire caused damage to the building. Because of the fire, the museum had to move to a smaller, temporary location for two years. But they didn't give up!
Returning Home
After two years, in 2002, the Imagination Station was able to move back into its original building. It was a big moment for the museum and the community. They rebuilt and reopened, ready to continue sharing science and history with everyone.
New Additions
In 2009, another exciting thing happened. The North Carolina Museum of The Coastal Plain opened on the third floor of the Imagination Station. This added even more history and learning opportunities for visitors.
The Imagination Station Science & History Museum continues to be a wonderful place for kids and families to learn, explore, and have fun in Wilson, North Carolina.
