2009 is the “Year of Darwin.” This year, people all over the world celebrate two major dates in history:  the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the publishing of his extremely influential book, The Origin of Species. What better way to honor the life of the man who fashioned a theory that forever changed the perception of the origin and nature of our species than with an exhibit dedicated entirely to his life and his work?

Darwin, on display at the Great Lakes Science Center through September 18 does exactly this. An in-depth exhibition featuring specimens, artifacts, manuscripts and memorabilia related to Darwin allows visitors the opportunity to step inside the life and mind of Charles Darwin. Both engaging and enlightening, Darwin is divided into nine major sections to help spectators realize the sheer curiosity and intelligence possessed by Darwin, characteristics which allowed him to make observations that would eventually lead to his theory of evolution.

Take a trip around the world on the HMS Beagle through colorful and detailed re-creations of the environments and creatures Darwin witnessed in his travels. Experience his life’s work through an elaborate reconstruction of the naturalist’s study at Down House, where for 21 years he compiled evidence to prove that all life evolves based on natural selection. And, take a look at evolution today through contemporary examples that have enhanced and enriched Darwin’s original theory.
The Great Lakes Science Center is located at 601 Erieside Avenue in Cleveland. Admission to Darwin is $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for children and free for members. Tickets can be purchased at the box office and discount packages are available for groups of 10 or more. –Submitted by CA

Editor’s Note: The Great Lakes Science Center is one of America’s largest interactive science Museums with more than 400 exciting hands-on exhibits, themed traveling exhibits, OMNIMAX films, daily demonstrations and exciting educational programs.