Explore Southwest Wisconsin’s Agricultural Roots During the Wisconsin Science Festival

PLATTEVILLE, Wis., October 3, 2024 — Cultivate your curiosity with an exploration of agriculture and its connections to our past and present at The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums during a weeklong festival October 16-20 celebrating the wonders of science throughout Wisconsin. This year’s theme is “Agriculture.” A special free, self-guided tour of the Museum’s outdoor agricultural artifacts will be offered all week Wednesday, October 16 through Sunday, October 20.

Each year, the Wisconsin Science Festival highlights a specific aspect of the world around us — and this year’s focus is agriculture and its interconnectedness with the state’s economy, society, well-being and the future of humanity. As part of the festivities, the Museum will provide a self-guided tour of the Museum’s outdoor agricultural implements. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich stories of our agricultural history and ingenuity in Grant County. The Museum is also partnering with the Platteville Public Library to provide a fun, hands-on program for youth ages 7-11. The October 16 event at the library will start at 4 p.m. and include hands-on activities like making edible dirt cups, building an aquifer in a bottle, and coloring.

"The Wisconsin Science Festival is all about celebrating curiosity and community," says Sam Mulrooney, director of the Wisconsin Science Festival. "This year’s focus on agriculture highlights both the tradition and innovation shaping our state, from corn mazes to cutting-edge ag tech. We’re excited to offer Wisconsinites a unique opportunity to engage with science in ways that reflect the diverse talents and landscapes of Wisconsin."

The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums are located on Main Street in Platteville, Wisconsin, in the heart of the historic Upper Mississippi Valley lead-zinc mining region. The mission of the Museums is to continue in the pursuit of excellence in the areas of regional and mining history. To achieve that purpose, the Museums are commissioned to be custodians of the past; to interpret the rich lead and zinc mining heritage of the region; as well as to preserve, interpret, and display the artifacts that define Southwest Wisconsin. The Museums are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday from May to October. Cultural programs, special events, and virtual tours are offered year-round. Follow The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For information and registration, visit: www.mining.jamison.museum/programs or call (608) 348-3301.

The Wisconsin Science Festival offers the perfect opportunity to unleash your curiosity and discover how science connects to everyday life. Explore the outdoors with our BioBlitz, enjoy a book talk with an award-winning author or dig into the hands-on science opportunities in your community. With hundreds of events throughout the state, there’s something for everyone! Check the Wisconsin Science Festival website for the full festival schedule: www.wisconsinsciencefest.org.