The San Diego Museum of Man is a California historical landmark, where you can view art objects describing the culture of the indigenous peoples of Southern California, Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Maya.
History of creation
In 1915, the exhibition "The History of Man through the Ages" was organized, which was put together by archaeologist Edgar Lee Hewitt. He conducted expeditions, and the locals were interested to see the objects discovered during the excavations. The citizens, led by politician, department store owner and philanthropist George Marston, have registered the San Diego Museum Association. This made it possible to preserve the scientist's collectibles and create a permanent museum that could receive visitors. Hewitt was appointed director of the institution, and everyone considered this decision to be fair.
In the 1930s, the museum was called the Palace of Science, and the name of the non-profit organization was changed in connection with the organization of an international exhibition in California. In 1942, the landmark was renamed the Museum of Man, and in the late 1970s, the prefix "San Diego" was added, but there were no objections to this. In 2020, it became a "Museum of us". Despite this, many people got used to the old name, and continue to use it.
Short description
The building and tower of the California Quadrangle were equipped for museum collections. Visitors pay attention to the stone carvings decorating the facade, and various sculptures can also be seen here. The permanent exhibition of the San Diego Museum of Man is dedicated to pre-Columbian history, and the collection also includes reconstructions of prehistoric man from around the world, statuettes, masks, and sarcophagi from Ancient Egypt.
What can I see
On the ground floor of the San Diego Museum of Man, "Birology" is taking place, an exhibition describing the technology for making a drink used by ancient peoples. In the "Maya" section, you can find copies of steles from Guatemala. "Monsters" with interactive stands were created for young visitors to look at mythological creatures, including yetis, kraken, and even unicorns with dragons.
The second floor of the San Diego Museum of Man is occupied by unusual collections, among which samurai armor stands out. You can study the household items and art of the first Californians, look at the mummification collections not only of Ancient Egypt, but also of other states, and listen to stories about ancient civilizations. Temporary exhibitions are being organized at Everham Hall. "The "Tower after Hours" entertainment event is organized 3-5 times a year in the "Museum of Us".
How to get
The San Diego Museum of Man is open in Balboa Park, with buses No7, 120 and Rapid 215 passing close to the park. In the Inspiration Point, Organ Pavilion and Federal parking lots, you can board a tram that passes near the main attractions.
Usually, from Sunday to Wednesday, guided tours are held from 10:00 to 17:00, and from Thursday to Saturday, the "Museum of Us" is open from 10:00 to 20:30. The schedule may change, it is recommended to check the opening hours on the institution's website when planning a visit. Admission to the San Diego Museum of Man is free for children under 5 years old accompanied by adults.
Gallery
