The Discovery Museum

The Museum was founded in 1958 and opened to the public in 1962 as The Museum of Art Science and Industry. "M.A.S.I." was the only non-historical, multi-disciplinary museum in the Greater Bridgeport area. Early exhibits ranged from the natural and physical sciences to decorative and fine arts. In 1985, recognizing the regional movement from industr... y to technology that occurred in the 70's and 80's, the museum's Board of Trustees redefined the mission of the Museum to focus on two distinct areas: Science and Art. A master plan was developed which included the renovation of the facility, installation of interactive science exhibits, and improved gallery space. Exhibits moved away from natural science, expanded in the physical sciences, and added technology. In direct response to the pleas of educators who expressed the need for assistance in teaching the physical sciences, the museum developed a science curriculum that met the standards of the CT State Department of Education. In 1990 MASI became The Discovery Museum, reflecting a commitment to "hands-on" experiences and participatory education. In 1991 with the help of area corporations and the State of Connecticut, the Challenger Learning Center was installed as the only center of its kind within New England and the 6th nationwide. In 2000 the museum's strategic plan called for a focus on science & technology. In 2001, the Board of Trustees further focused the institution's efforts on science and technology by adopting the current mission: "to educate, excite, and engage visitors in the exploration of science, technology, and ideas through interactive experiences that promote new insights." In December of 2001, the museum established the practice of hosting traveling, hands-on science exhibitions three times a year. In 2004 Governor John Rowland announced substantial funding for The Discovery Museum as part of the state's continued focus on advancing math and science education. In September 2009 ground was broken adjacent to the museum for a regional science ...Read More