WHITEVILLE – A newly renovated branch of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Whiteville opened Saturday. The nature and science learning center has been repurposed to feature new exhibits, an Investigate Lab, Nature Exploration Center, a Distance Learning Classroom, and an outdoor Nature Play Space.

“It is thrilling to extend the reach of our mission into Columbus County,” said Emlyn Koster, PhD, director of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh in a press release. “Made possible through a partnership with the Friends of the Museum in Whiteville, this community now has an indoor-outdoor learning center to enable its students and families to explore the natural world close to home and a base from which the Museum can deliver programs to the surrounding rural region.”

The NC Museum of Natural Sciences, based in Raleigh, an agency of the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is the largest natural sciences museum in the Southeast with Smithsonian Affiliate status. Dating to 1879, it is also the most visited museum in North Carolina and one of the most innovative institutions of its kind globally. Based in Raleigh, the Museum strives to reach every region of the state, especially rural communities.

“When the doors open to this facility, we will have a new beginning to provide our children, and the entire community, with high-quality science programming,” said Harold Blanchard, president of the Friends Board in Whiteville.  “Good things are ahead for the Museum in Whiteville. It’s an exciting time, and we look forward to being a more involved part of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.”