Evolution—the fossil evidence

“Evolution—the fossil evidence” is the subject of a special lecture by San Bernardino County Museum Curator of Paleontology Eric Scott on Sunday, February 11 at 2:00 p.m. The illustrated lecture, in the Fisk Gallery of the museum in Redlands, is free with general admission.

The theory of evolution is one of the most far-reaching and successful theories ever advanced in the history of science. Evolution is also big news in the world today. What makes this theory so important? Why is the fossil record so critical to evolutionary theory? Do fossils from the American southwest provide evidence of evolutionary processes? Scott will answer these and many other questions about evolution and fossils, just in time for “Darwin Day 2007” -- the anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin.

“As paleontologists, my colleagues and I study fossils, so we deal with the implications of Darwin’s theories every day,” says Scott. “Darwin used the fossil record, as he knew it, to support his new concept of evolution; since then, every fossil ever found continues to support his ideas. Now, we use fossils to better explain how evolution worked.”

This month, ground was broken for the museum’s new Hall of Geological Wonders, scheduled to open in 2008. Fossils from San Bernardino County and the southwestern United States are integral to this new venture, the museum’s first expansion in over thirty years. “Because of our local geology, we have an incredible wealth of fossils preserved at the museum,” says Scott. “The new hall will showcase fossils that people have never seen on display before. And wherever we show these fossils, the underlying story – whether stated outright or not – is evolution.”

The San Bernardino County Museum is at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and holiday Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6 (adult), $5 (student or senior), and $4 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.

The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is 909-307-2669 ext. 229 or (TDD) 909-792-1462.