skip navigation

The Washburn Society

H. Bradford Washburn Jr. — acclaimed explorer, museum innovator, and photographer — was named founding director of the New England Museum of Natural History in 1939. His first two acts were to persuade the board to change the name to Museum of Science and to relocate from Berkeley Street in the Back Bay to its present site on the dam at Science Park. The Museum of Science is often fittingly referred to as "the house that Brad built."

The Washburn Society honors Brad and Barbara Washburn and recognizes the many generous individuals — past and present — who have included the Museum in their wills and estate plans, or who have otherwise entered into life income arrangements with the Museum.

 

Did you know?

  • The Museum of Science is an independent, nonprofit institution funded by individuals like you, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.

  • The Museum is the nation's first science center to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Its live animal collection comprises some 120 animals of 50 species.

  • With 1.5 million visitors coming through its doors each year, the Museum is Boston's second most popular destination; only the Red Sox draw bigger crowds.

Annual Fund

Want to do more for the Museum? Check out our annual giving societies:

Volunteering

Opportunities vary from interpreting exhibit spaces to guiding and providing information. No experience is necessary; the Museum provides you with training.