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Edwin Carter Museum: A Naturalist's Legacy

Explore the legacy of Edwin Carter, a pioneer naturalist, and his remarkable collection of Rocky Mountain wildlife in his original Breckenridge cabin.

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Step back in time at the Edwin Carter Museum, housed in Carter's original 1875 log cabin. Discover the story of a gold prospector turned naturalist, and explore his collection of Rocky Mountain animal specimens that formed the basis of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

A brief summary to Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Local tips

  • Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum and its collections.
  • Plan to spend 30 to 90 minutes to fully explore the museum's exhibits and learn about Edwin Carter's life and work.
  • Check the Breckenridge History website for information on current exhibits and events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Main Street in Breckenridge, walk north on Ridge Street. The museum is located at 111 N Ridge St, approximately a 10-minute walk from the center of town. Look for the log cabin with the 'Edwin Carter Museum' sign.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Breckenridge Free Ride bus. Get off at the Main Street stop and walk north on Ridge Street. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. The Breckenridge Free Ride is free.

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Discover more about Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

The Edwin Carter Museum, located in Breckenridge, Colorado, offers a glimpse into the life and work of Edwin Carter, a man who traded gold mining for naturalism in the late 1860s. Originally seeking fortune in the Pike's Peak gold rush, Carter became concerned by the environmental impact of mining. He transformed his log cabin into a museum to showcase his collection of over 3,000 taxidermied animal specimens. The museum, which opened in 1875, served as both Carter's home and a public display of his collection. His work drew scientists from around the world, and his collection eventually became the foundation for the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Today, the restored museum features interactive displays and original artifacts, offering visitors a chance to learn about Carter's conservation efforts and the natural history of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Carter's life, his taxidermy techniques, and the local wildlife he preserved. The museum also highlights the impact of mining on the environment, a cause that Carter passionately championed. Allow 30-90 minutes to fully experience the museum.

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