The natural history collections of the New Brunswick Museum result from over 150 years of study and collection. Starting as Gesner’s Museum of Natural History in 1842, the collections grew from 2,173 items to over 300,000 specimens, making it the first museum of its kind in British North America.
The Natural History Society of New Brunswick was established on January 29, 1862, in Saint John, driven by local interest in geology. Founding members, including George Frederic Matthew and Charles Frederic Hartt, formed the Steinhammer Club to study local rock formations.
At its first meeting, the society aimed to create a collection illustrating the province’s natural history. Over time, they developed extensive collections in geology, zoology, and botany, forming the basis of the present museum.
Today, the museum houses over 300,000 specimens, supporting research, exhibits, and public education in botany, geology/palaeontology, and zoology, helping to understand the diversity of life in the Atlantic region.
Search the Natural History collection on the Global Biodiversity Information Facility website (GBIF).
Contribute to the New Brunswick Museum’s mission by donating specimens or funds, enhancing and expanding its diverse collections, or donate your time as a volunteer.
