An Unforgettable Journey from Ocean to Exhibit
The Whale Skeleton Project
In 2023, the Museum of Alaska began an ambitious and community-powered effort to preserve, clean, and articulate a full fin whale skeleton for public display. This one-of-a-kind project blends science, history, and hands-on education—offering visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at how natural history exhibits come to life in real time.
From beach to bones to breathtaking display.
About the Whale
The fin whale at the heart of this project was recovered through a permitted educational salvage, offering an extraordinary opportunity to study marine biology while building a legacy exhibit. Our team—made up of museum staff, volunteers, and local experts—has carefully cleaned, catalogued, and preserved every bone in preparation for a full skeletal mount to be featured at the museum.
Real work. Real science. Right here in Wasilla.
Project Timeline
More Than an Exhibit—It’s a Living Laboratory
Education Through Conservation
The Whale Skeleton Project has quickly become a centerpiece of our educational programming. Students, homeschoolers, and lifelong learners gain hands-on exposure to marine biology, anatomy, and museum conservation techniques. Our staff hosts school visits, on-site demos, and Q&A sessions with the team behind the project. For many, it’s their first time seeing the science of museum work in action. This exhibit builds bridges—between curiosity and expertise, and between the natural world and the human responsibility to understand and protect it.
Powered by Passion, Built by Community
Volunteer & Visitor Engagement
From scraping blubber to labeling bone fragments, the whale exhibit has brought together dozens of volunteers and museum supporters. Visitors can view parts of the process during open hours, and those who want to help behind the scenes are encouraged to sign up for project-specific volunteer shifts. Whether you're lending a hand or stopping by to learn, you’re part of something much bigger than a display—you’re helping create a permanent piece of Alaska’s story.
Help Us Bring the Whale to Life
Support the Exhibit
As a nonprofit museum, we rely on donations and sponsorships to bring projects like this to completion. Every dollar helps fund cleaning supplies, conservation equipment, interpretive signage, and structural support for the skeleton’s eventual display. You can make a one-time gift, become a sponsor, or dedicate your support to this specific project. Together, we can transform this whale into an unforgettable, educational experience for generations to come.
