Museum Guide

At the Richard I. Bong Museum, experience “Marge,” our beautifully restored P-38 Lightning, stand beside our M60 tank, and enjoy the scenic hiking trail just beyond our grounds. Step into history and immerse yourself in powerful, firsthand accounts from veterans spanning World War II to today. The Real Top Gun- Born in Superior, Wisconsin, Dick Bong rose to national prominence as America’s greatest fighter ace. During World War II, he shot down 40 enemy aircraft in the Pacific Theater, securing his place in history. Discover the life, courage, and legacy of this remarkable young man.  Plan Your Visit- Join us for guided or self-guided tours and connect with the history that shaped our world. Walk with heroes—visit today. More than a museum, we are a living tribute to those who served, both on the front lines and the home front. Meet our volunteers, hear their stories, and leave inspired. We host a variety of veteran-focused programs throughout the year, including a Boundary Waters retreat, the service of over 300 Thanksgiving meals annually, and commemorative events for major military holidays. Our outreach extends into the community through veteran-led presentations and demonstrations at schools and organizations. Our educational programs welcome students from across northern Wisconsin and Minnesota, offering hands-on learning through authentic artifacts and direct engagement with veteran experiences. When schools can’t come to us, we bring history to them. Beyond our local impact, we are committed to a global mission. Mission Marge, launched in 2024, began as an effort to locate Dick Bong’s P-38, “Marge,” which crashed in Papua New Guinea. Since discovering the site, we have worked to honor its historical significance while expanding humanitarian efforts in nearby communities. We look forward to welcoming you any time of the year!  https://bongcenter.org/  

Since 1999, the Cavalla Historical Foundation assumed oversight of the Galveston Naval Museum and its mission to restore, maintain and operate USS Cavalla, USS Stewart, the sail of the USS Tautog (SSN-639) and the conning tower of the USS Carp (SS-338).  The Galveston Naval Museum, rich in history houses a captivating artifact collection, featuring restored vessels, vintage products and machinery, and weaponry. Each item tells a story of naval history, taking visitors on a journey through time, honoring bravery and ingenuity of sailors. Step into the annals of history at the Galveston Naval Museum. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant coastal city, our historic venue offers a unique and captivating setting for your special event as well. Hosting your gathering amidst the backdrop of beautifully preserved naval vessels pays tribute to the historical sacrifices that allow us to be here today. The sea breeze and stunning views further enhance the ambiance, reminding us of the resilience and dedication that have shaped our world. Whether it's a corporate function, a special celebration, or a memorable gathering, our team is dedicated to ensuring your event is truly exceptional. Join us at the Galveston Naval Museum, where history comes alive, providing the perfect backdrop for timeless memories. We also offer sleep overs! Sleep in the same quarters where sailors bunked 75 years ago aboard the USS Stewart.  Come take an exclusive private tour and learn the science of ships, the importance of preservation and the heritage of our nation’s military.  Complete your assigned mission and become an honorary ensign. The Museum is COMMEMORATING 100 YEARS OF HONORING VETERANS! In 1919, President Wilson marked the first celebration of Armistice Day, making it a National Holiday. Honor your favorite Veteran this year by making a $25 donation in their name by clicking the button below. The Veteran's name will appear on our Veteran Honor Roll. https://www.galvestonnavalmuseum.com/veterans So, when you’re in Galveston or in the area check us out and all we have to offer our patrons – “From harm’s way to historic” you don’t want to miss the history we display in our museum! We're open every day from 9am - 6pm: (409) 770-3196 https://www.galvestonnavalmuseum.com/   Museum Address: 100 Seawolf Parkway, Galveston, Texas    

Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory opened to the public in May of 2000. The Museum receives approximately 5,000 visitors each year and our guests represent all 50 states and over 40 foreign countries. Guests to the Museum return year after year to see the changes, improvements, and new exhibits that our staff is continually planning and completing. The Exhibit Hall at the Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum houses a host of replicated and original fossils from tiny footprint casts to the 40′ long skeleton Torvosaurus, a rare carnivore relative of Tyrannosaurus rex which hails from the Jurassic period. The Museum’s focus is on the Mesozoic period, which is also known as ‘The Age of Dinosaurs.’ The Mesozoic is comprised of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The museum cultivates specimens from exclusive local dig sites. Guests are able to view Paleontology students and the curator preserve specimens through a viewing window located in the exhibit hall. Witness history as it’s uncovered and assembled in the laboratory. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of minerals from all over the world. These are displayed in the exhibit hall and sold in the gift shop. We welcome you to learn more about our Dinosaur Museum and Mesalands Community College, by clicking our website!  https://www.mesalands.edu/community/dinosaur-museum/ Mesalands Community College’s Dinosaur Museum222 East Laughlin Street - Tucumcari, NM - (575) 461-6627