Wow What a magnificent building This is the Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum of Natural History. Established in 1931 it’s the first public nature education facility in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. This isn’t just any museum. It’s a historic mid-1870s Victorian mansion. Imagine. It’s nestled in Thatcher Woods a haven for native animals and wildflowers.
The Trailside Museum wasn’t always a museum. Originally built in 1876 it served as a private residence. It even housed two schools the River Forest Young Ladies Institute and the River Forest Institute. In 1919 the Forest Preserves bought the building and land. It became their headquarters until 1932. Then it transformed into a trailside museum showcasing the plants and animals of Cook County.
The museum’s first curator Mary Cooper Black created the initial displays. She got help from the Field Museum and the Chicago Academy of Sciences. The artist Gordon Persall painted the “Local Reptiles” exhibit. It’s still there today. He also made a booklet listing all the area’s plants and animals.
Later Virginia Moe became curator. She worked for over 50 years. She focused on wildlife rehabilitation. For many years injured and orphaned animals found care here. That ended in 2005. She even wrote a book “Animal Inn” about her experiences.
Today the Trailside Museum is more than a museum. It’s a vibrant community center. It offers programs for all ages. You can explore miles of trails through Thatcher Woods. Hike to Thatcher Pond a former oxbow of the Des Plaines River. Go birding. Even fish. It is a true natural wonder.
The museum has seen many changes. Extensive renovations happened in 1990 and 1991. Harold L “Hal” Tyrell a Cook County commissioner helped secure funding. His name was added to the museum’s name to honor his contributions.
So step inside Trailside Museum. Discover its rich history and the wonders of nature. Explore the exhibits. Wander the trails. Enjoy the beauty of Thatcher Woods. The Trailside Museum of Natural History awaits. It offers a unique blend of history nature and community. A true gem of River Forest.