Museum of History in Granite facts for kids
The Museum of History in Granite is a special museum located in the town of Felicity, California. This unique museum shows off huge monuments made from a beautiful stone called Missouri Red Granite. Each monument is about 100 feet (30 m) long.
Imagine a giant history book carved into stone! That's what this museum is like. It's designed to keep a record of human history for thousands of years. The museum has more than 900 large granite panels displayed outdoors. It was created by Jacques-André Istel, and the main artist is Gene Britton.
They have been working on this museum for many years. Most of the monuments are already finished. However, the eight monuments that tell the "History of Humanity" are still being carved. Only about 31% of them are complete.
Some parts of the museum tell the story of California. This section was officially opened in 2016. There are also smaller monuments, like the Felicity Stone. This stone is like a "Rosetta Stone for the future." It's located right in the middle of the "History of Humanity" monuments.
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Exploring the Museum's Exhibits
The Museum of History in Granite features many different exhibits. Each one tells a unique story or honors important people. Here are some of the main attractions you can explore.
The Felicity Stone
The Felicity Stone is an important part of the museum. It has nine large panels. This exhibit uses an idea similar to the famous Rosetta Stone. It helps people understand how to translate English into several very old languages. It's like a key for future generations to unlock ancient words.
The Story of Humanity
This is the main exhibit at the museum. It will have 416 panels when it's finished. Right now, about 25% of it is complete. This section aims to tell the entire story of humanity. It even includes famous art, like Michaelangelo's painting Creation, carved onto panels #11-13.
USMC Korean War Memorial
This powerful memorial honors the brave soldiers who fought in the Korean War. It lists the names of 4,617 Marines. It also includes the names of 107 Navy Corpsmen. These individuals gave their lives during the conflict. It's a place to remember their sacrifice.
Quest for the Sky: History of Aviation
If you love airplanes and flying, you'll enjoy this exhibit. "Quest for the Sky" tells the amazing story of aviation. It covers how people learned to fly and the history of aircraft. This exhibit even won the Air and Space Medal in Europe back in 2003.
The History of the French Foreign Legion
This section is made up of 51 panels. It tells the fascinating history of the French Foreign Legion. This is a special military unit of the French Army. It's known for its unique traditions and brave soldiers.
The History of Arizona
Another part of the museum focuses on the history of the state of Arizona. This exhibit shares important events and facts about Arizona's past. It helps visitors learn about this interesting state.
Hall of Fame of Parachuting
For those interested in skydiving, there's a Hall of Fame dedicated to parachuting. This exhibit celebrates the pioneers and heroes of parachuting. It honors those who have made great achievements in the sport.
The Wall for the Ages
This is a very special part of the museum. "The Wall for the Ages" allows people to record their own names. It's a way to leave your mark for future generations to see. Your name can become a part of this lasting historical record.
The History of the United States of America
This exhibit has 62 panels. It tells the story of the United States of America. This section was officially opened on Washington's Birthday in 2014. It covers important moments and figures in American history.
The History of California
Learn all about the Golden State in this exhibit. It focuses on the rich history of California. This section was dedicated in 2016. It shares key events and developments that shaped California.