Institute of Science History Hosts Grand Opening and Lobby Refurbishment for 'Earthly Matters' Exhibition, Marked by Ribbon Cutting on October 8th

The Science History Institute in Philadelphia is set to unveil a revitalized main building following a $3.3 million renovation project, the first major redesign since the Institute's opening in 2008.

The renovation project includes a full lobby redesign, the opening of a new gift shop, and the installation of a new permanent exhibition called "Earthly Matters." This centerpiece of the lobby renovation explores the history and science behind a collection of more than 20 minerals.

"Earthly Matters" is presented in loving memory of Margaret & Moshe Alafi through the generosity of Alafi Capital and Bering Capital. The exhibition features historical tales about gemstones such as aquamarine and tourmaline, and precious metals such as silver and gold. Elements, crystals, gemstones, and a meteorite will be on display in seven state-of-the-art cases, with some minerals intentionally lit with ultraviolet lighting to glow.

The renovation project is part of a plan to expand access to the Institute and increase offerings. In addition to the new exhibition, the Science History Institute has several events planned for the coming months.

On October 8, 2025, Old City Philadelphia will host "A Marvelous Night of Minerals: An Earthly Matters Opening Celebration." Highlights of the event include a ribbon cutting, curator's talk, mineral specimens, rare books, alchemical recipe recreations, and a signature rock candy cocktail.

The Science History Institute is also hosting a free, daylong celebration of the history of food science called Curious Histories Fest on June 14, 2023. The event takes place from 11am to 3pm, with a second session from 5pm to 8pm at the Institute's headquarters.

While the museum will be temporarily closed until March 19, 2025, with a new exhibition slated to open in May 2025, the gift shop remains open and offers Institute-branded merchandise, postcards, notecards, magnets, science-themed jewelry, and custom tea towels created by Pennsylvania-based artists.

The Science History Institute acknowledges its collaborators for their work on the project, including AOS Architects, Dan Bosin Associates, INTECH Construction, Case[werks], Flux Art Conservation, Gander & White, Keith Ragone Studios, Ben Neiditz, Will Bucher, Gustave Lester, Berry & Homer, Vinylbomb, and Workspace LLC.

For more information about the Science History Institute and its upcoming events, visit their website at www.sciencehistory.org. Registration for events is required and can be completed online.

Institute of Science History Hosts Grand Opening and Lobby Refurbishment for 'Earthly Matters' Exhibition, Marked by Ribbon Cutting on October 8th