Gray Fossil Site & Museum

Dig into the Past!

Paleontology in Northeast Tennessee

The ETSU Gray Fossil Site & Museum together with partner, the Hands On! Discovery Center, is a dynamic hub for science and education in northeastern Tennessee. The world-class paleontological site preserves a one-of-a-kind window into the Appalachian Highlands five million years ago and is an invaluable resource for paleontology research and education.

 

VISION: To serve as the region’s leading center for natural science discovery, interpretation, and inspiration and to educate the public about life through time.

We are committed to fulfilling this mission by:

  • Stimulating a culture of lifelong learning with relevant exhibits and educational programs that are creative, appealing, and interactive.
  • Encouraging beneficial partnerships between the community and the museum.
  • Providing resources, housing, and expertise to care for collections.
  • Promoting and facilitating research on the collections.
  • Maintaining a receptive and respectful forum for diverse viewpoints.
  • Emphasizing institutional integrity and high professional standards in all activities and programs.

 

MISSION: To discover, preserve, and interpret the fossil record of the region while fostering an appreciation and understanding of natural science through research, education, and interactive experiences.

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Visit

Welcome to the Gray Fossil Site & Museum! Step into the fossil hall, peek inside the paleontology labs, and join a tour of the fossil site for an up-close look at how we uncover the past.
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Museum Exhibits

From the 5-million-year-old fossils of the Gray Fossil Site to the Hands On! Discovery Center's interactive science and art exhibits, we have something for everyone!
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Research and Collections

From 5-million-year-old fossils to the bears in your backyard, our scientists are dedicated to exploring the natural history of the southern Appalachians.