On November 14, 1973, a modest yet significant institution opened its doors in the heart of Toruń: the Natural History Museum at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection of Nicolaus Copernicus University. This museum, dedicated to the wonders of biology and environmental conservation, quickly became a focal point for scientific discovery, education, and community engagement. Born from the vision of professor Mikulski, with enthusiastic support from the university’s then-rector, Prof. Witold Łukaszewicz, the museum was set to inspire generations.
The museum’s journey began with Dr. Wiesław Kokociński as its first director, who led the institution until his retirement in 1997. Nestled within the walls of the Institute of Biology and Earth Sciences (which later became the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection), the museum became a center for rare and unique exhibits. Its first showcase, held in 1974, unveiled a collection of 12,000 butterflies, a vibrant display that captured the attention and imagination of the public. Over the years, the museum’s exhibits grew, enriched by contributions from scientific expeditions, private collections, and even donations from local schools.
A World-Class Collection
The museum’s exhibits, housed across three main halls, offered visitors a journey through the natural world and the passage of time. The Collections Hall was a testament to global biodiversity, featuring:
- The butterfly collection of Professor Jan Prüffer, highlighting the diversity of Poland’s Pomeranian region.
- Dr. Kokociński’s Algiers Collection, with rare scorpions, arachnids, and drought-resistant plants from the Sahara, the Chott Highlands, and the Atlas Mountains.
- Unique specimens from Antarctica and Spitsbergen, providing a glimpse into the flora and fauna of these remote areas.
- The “World of Lichens” exhibit, showcasing a variety of lichen species.
- The famed African hunting collection of Edward Mycielski-Trojanowski, which included preserved heads of black rhinos, hippos, buffalos, antelopes, and other large mammals dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In addition to this, the “History of Earth” hall captivated audiences with plant and animal fossils, amber specimens, and even a preserved brown bear, while the “Zoology” exhibit offered an extensive display of animal species, ranging from sponges and cnidarians to amphibians and reptiles.
A Community Loss
In 2017, after more than four decades of operation, the museum’s closure was announced, marking an end to a rich era of scientific and educational outreach. For the people of Toruń and the surrounding areas, the museum was more than just a display of exhibits—it was a hub for learning and inspiration. Schools often organized trips to this museum, giving children firsthand encounters with rare natural specimens. The museum had become a part of Toruń’s cultural and educational landscape, and its closure left a significant void.