Secrets of the Fossil Hall

The fossil hall at the Smithsonian’s national museum of natural history has inspired and awed visitors for generations. While the hall is currently closed for major renovations (opening in 2019) this video highlights some of the fossils specimens, their condition, and their biodiversity and evolution over time.

[BaffledRich]

SUCH RESPECT FOR THE ARTIST THAT PAINTED THAT MURAL, GREAT WORK WE ARE APPRECIATIVE 🙏🏼

[AyoGobi]

I love this video. Every paleontologist seems so happy telling you the stories of these amazing creatures. They just look so amused to share what they know

[tomc]

Completely unbelievable, when the bald guy with glasses, at about the 4-min mark, says that a previous director or manager of the museum "hated" dinosaurs and so purposely wanted to "hide" the dino exhibit so that visitors wouldn't see it when they first entered the hall, then adds the director's "excuse" for designing the hall that way was to increase the impact of the first sight of the dinosaurs, given that it would be somewhat delayed as they went around the other exhibits before coming upon them. I certainty love dinosaurs and think his "excuse" for the layout simply makes good sense, as it would definitely increase the effect of the exhibit if the experience was momentarily delayed, as opposed to immediately seeing them as they entered the large hall. It would build a bit of "suspense" prior.

[beverleecarrell]

The incredulousness of this history of the display of these magnificent creatures is appreciated..

[sammysosaa]

I went on a field trip here when I was in elementary I’m old now but so many memories

[WarrenFahyAuthor]

Absolutely terrific documentary. Thanks!

[Akibatai]

All the little stories about the hall are a delight to listen to~

[crabshoehorse]

Loved watching this. What a great place.

[thearaucariafarmer]

As a lover of specimens (like ancient invertebrates <3!) and total paleonerd who loves being overwhelmed by museums and reading signage, I'll very much miss the old hall. Curiously, the only memory I have of seeing it in person, is from when I was very young, there isn't much detail but I particularly remember being absolutely amazed by the Eryops, Dimetrodon, and Neanderthal burial diorama, but that's about it unfortunately. I also remember trying to imagine their ancient alien world, and feeling absolutely euphoric at the thought. Now, seeing the virtual tour now, on their website, which is in amazing HD (maybe 4K?) quality, It's made me miss it even more. I guess I really discovered the hall for my own memory going forward "posthumously, " if you will. The amazing Burgess shale, marine invertebrate clade and "Phanerozoic evolutionary fauna" displays are AMAZING!! I'm a bit bummed they didn't get as detailed coverage in this video but I understand, there's a ton to cover.

Seriously, if any Smithsonian paleo connected people (or anyone else) see this comment, and could link me to some online photo album with better zoomed in pictures of any of the Cenozoic mollusks, Paleozoic invert displays where you can read all the displays and see every specimen in HD, PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

[Sirmellowman]

that story that Carol told is just so amazing! can you imagine finding that in that way, its so rare. there must have not been a human there since it had been naturally uncovered by the erosion. wow.

[MichaelParthum]

As someone who didn't get to see the Fossil Hall before the renovation, I'm glad this video gives some good views and stories.

[oban]

This entire channel is amazing. Idk who is in charge of this channel but if you ever see this keep up the good work. It's a crime that so few people are subscribed to this.

[jillellinwood]

Murals are gorgeous. You feel as though you lived and walked among these wonderful animals.

[pavelyakunin]

Pleasant relaxing music, unlike many modern documentaries with overdramatic and stressful musical background

[rowdeo]

The background music is annoying distracting from the monologues.

[williammoore]

Excellent video, full of great information.

[zackakai]

18:28 I love the fact that the two specimens he mentions here are Ed and Al xD

[LBCB]

@3:30 "yeah this weekend we're going to 'Petrified Log-Jam National Park'*" lol 😆

[ernestojr.valenzuela]

I like how there's some dumb people in the comment section saying something dumb like giant humans, great flood, and other BS they believe because their feelings are hurt that there is no evidence of their invisible sky fairy ever existeing.

[boredwarlock]

How can you hate dinosaurs? I can't believe that dude was so insanely selfish.