The above view shows part of the great expansion of Greensboro's science center on Lawndale Drive, just north of Old Lake Jeanette Road (south of the Greensboro Day School). The Natural Science Center opened in 1957 as the Greensboro Junior Museum. At the time, it seemed remotely located, way out in the country. As seen in the photo above, it has become quite an impressive facility. Under the leadership of Glen Dobrogosz, hired in 2004, it has grown not only in square footage but also in membership and attendance. Millions of dollars in financial support have been made available through private funding and a bond referendum. It has also received accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and now boasts both a zoo and an aquarium.*
Over fifty years ago, Greensboro resident Catherine Block (Laidlaw) was instrumental in the science center's creation. Mrs. Block-Laidlaw passed away this past Thursday at the age of 87. How wonderful that she lived to see one of her projects grow into such a fabulous, regional resource. To be sure she was pleased and happy to see it thriving. Thank you, Mrs. Block-Laidlaw. Thank you, Mr. Dobrogosz. Thank you, Greensboro for believing in this great place!
*see Wikipedia entry here and the science center's website here. Below is a view of of the Lawndale entrance, currently under construction.
It's hard to imagine it the way it used to be. It's quite impressive now. I can't wait to visit the aquarium.
Posted by: Jane T. Mitchell | Monday, June 03, 2013 at 09:39 AM
Had city leaders had any brains they would have put all this downtown years ago instead of pitching GPAC.
Posted by: Billy Jones | Monday, June 03, 2013 at 02:45 PM