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John James Audubon Museum
John James Audubon, the first artist or ornithologist to depict life-size birds and animals in their natural surroundings, lived in Henderson, Kentucky for several years. He was attracted to Henderson because of its position on the Mississippi Flyway, a bird migration route. Today the John James Audubon State Park preserves the peaceful woods where the famed naturalist walked as he observed the subjects of his paintings. The John James Audubon Museum is the park’s centerpiece.
The museum has the world’s largest collection of Audubon memorabilia and one of the most extensive collections of his work in the world. Four galleries represent Audubon, his life, his work, and his legacy. Highlights of the permanent collection include:
- a collection of original drawings and paintings executed from age 19 to age 57.
- a diorama with a lifelike image of Audubon at work, surrounded by personal effects.
- displays of artifacts and personal belongings from Audubon’s life.
- a complete collection of Audubon’s publications on display, including Elephant Folio, Quadrupeds, and Bien edition.
- a life storyline including the contributions made by Audubon’s wife and sons toward the completion of his work.
Associated with the museum is a nature center with an observation room, equipped with binoculars and overlooking a native plant garden and woodland pond; an interactive Discovery Center offering hands-on activities and educational exhibits for children of all ages; and a Learning Center staffed by a naturalist and art educator and offering various special events and activities throughout the year. The museum and nature center are open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm CT (closed Thanksgiving Day and one week at Christmas).
The 692-acre state park includes a 28-acre lake and a 325-acre nature preserve with more than five miles of hiking trails. These trails provide the perfect opportunity to observe more than 20 species of warblers that settle at Audubon in the springtime. The park also offers rental cottages, camping, outdoor shelters, and canoes. The state park and museum are located just off U.S. 41 at Henderson’s northern boundary. If you have a few extra hours for your visit, take in Henderson’s historic downtown river walk to see the collection of bronze bird statues.
For more information, contact:
- John James Audubon Museum
3100 Hwy. 41 North
Henderson, KY 42420
(270) 827-1893