Arsenic Concerns Lead to Closure of Delbridge Museum in Sioux Falls
While most people visit the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to see live animals, the Delbridge Museum of Natural History provided a unique opportunity to view meticulously preserved taxidermy animals from around the world. Sadly, after nearly 40 years, the museum has closed its doors due to concerns over the increased risk of chemical exposure. Many Sioux Falls residents are upset by the decision and worry that this closure is the beginning of the end for the beloved collection.
The Delbridge Museum housed an impressive taxidermy collection of approximately 150 animals from six continents. Each animal in the collection was meticulously positioned in a diorama depicting its natural habitat, allowing visitors to see them up close. However, on August 18, city officials announced the museum’s closure citing a heightened risk of chemical exposure as the animal specimens age. It was revealed during a live-streamed news conference on August 29 that the majority of taxidermy mounts contained arsenic, a highly toxic substance that can lead to serious health complications.
The decision to close the museum has sparked backlash from residents who have fond memories of visiting the collection. Many are concerned that the city is not being transparent about the risks involved and suspect that the zoo wants to make room for newer attractions. City officials maintain that they cannot take any risks when it comes to public safety.
The closure of the Delbridge Museum has also raised concerns among conservators who worry that this incident will cause unnecessary panic regarding the safety of antique collections. Arsenic is commonly found in antique artifacts, particularly in the green pigments used for dyeing clothing, book covers, and artificial flowers. In taxidermy, inorganic arsenic was used as an embalming agent to prevent pests. This practice was discontinued in the 1980s due to health risks.
The value of the Delbridge Museum’s collection extends beyond Sioux Falls. Many of the species included in the collection are now protected, making this exhibit an invaluable educational tool. Taxidermy offers a unique opportunity for people to get up close to animals in a safe environment, something that cannot be replicated in the wild.
An appraisal of the collection revealed that at least 45% of the mounts showed signs of wear and tear, and a chemical analysis found that 79.5% tested positive for arsenic. While these numbers may sound alarming, it is important to note that the risk of exposure depends on the route of exposure. Ingestion is the most harmful, followed by inhalation and skin contact.
The task of addressing the contamination issue comes with a hefty price tag. Installing glass cases and improving ventilation systems could cost up to $4.2 million, while constructing a new building for the collection could reach $14 million. The city of Sioux Falls is currently working to develop a plan for the collection, considering the challenges posed by federal and state laws.
Sioux Falls residents are rallying to save the collection, with many expressing a desire to keep the animals on display. Efforts are underway to hire a conservator to independently assess the situation. There are hopes that the collection could find a new home in a building that used to be West Sioux Hardware, creating an artists’ bazaar where the taxidermy animals can continue to be appreciated. While the future of the collection remains uncertain, one thing is clear: these irreplaceable works of art should not be treated lightly.
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