May Natural History Museum

South of Colorado Springs in Rock Creek Park, the May Natural History Museum grew from James Frederick William May’s lifetime of collecting insects and arachnids after he began the work while recovering from injuries in the Second Boer War. Born in England and raised in Brazil, he traveled widely from 1903 to 1956, gathering and trading specimens from South America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. His son John opened the museum to the public in 1952, turning the collection into a permanent attraction. About 7,000 insects and spiders are displayed in handmade cases, and some specimens are now believed extinct, giving the collection scientific importance as well as tourist appeal.

Rock Creek Park, Colorado · United States