Our Science & Activism Tour invites visitors to consider these questions: Who is a scientist? Who is an activist? How does each bring about change?
This tour will explore historical moments of crisis, challenge, and change; from the influential book Silent Spring by conservationist Rachel Carson and the rise of the environmental movement; to ACT UP, the AIDS crisis, and the development of the patients’ bill of rights; to the Black Panthers’ lead role in community testing for sickle cell anemia; and more stories that examine the complex interactions between scientific knowledge, public policy, and community advocacy. This tour offers a broad picture of the ways activists have reshaped our understanding of science, and how visitors can become engaged today.
We can accommodate up to 25 individuals per tour group with a minimum group size of eight. Larger groups will be split to stagger their tour times since our spaces are relatively small.
The Science History Institute is a small museum dedicated to the history of the chemical and molecular sciences. We tell the stories behind the science: histories of discovery and innovation, challenge and change. Our collections include scientific instrumentation and tools of the laboratory, artwork related to alchemy and early chemistry, photography and archives, a specialized research library with a rare books collection, and a growing digital collection. Our main museum and permanent exhibition are on the first floor, with an additional upper level mezzanine. We also have a special changing exhibits gallery, and regular “pop-up” exhibits in our ExhibitLab and on the exterior of our building façade; please check our website to see what’s new and currently on view!
Our tours and programs are most suitable for ages 12-13 (7th grade) and up.
The museum of the Science History Institute will be CLOSED from December 22 2024 to March 7 2025 in order to renovate our spaces and improve visitor experience. During this time, NO in-person school or group tours will be offered. To learn more about possible 2025 virtual/online offerings, please contact Alex Asal at tours@sciencehistory.org.
History, Modern History, Science, Chemistry, Social Justice
50 students
60 min.
Tour Groups
Adult, Postsecondary
$3.00 per Person for Postsecondary School
$3.00 per Person for Adults