The Museum of Science and History was busy Sunday as folks came by for one last look through all of the exhibits.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A chapter concludes on Jacksonville’s Southbank as The Museum of Science and History shuttered its doors Sunday, gearing up for a transition to a new facility across the river.
It’s been a fixture for more than 55 years, so some folks were a little glossy-eyed as they took one last stroll through the exhibits.
“I’ve grown up with the MOSH,” said Bill Knight as he walked out of MOSH.
Looking up at a Pink Floyd laser light show felt like a fitting final memory of MOSH’s Southbank location for Bill Knight.
After all, he was there when they first started doing laser light shows back in the 70s.
“That year, my parents had to drop me off,” expressed Knight. “The following year, I had the privilege of driving myself. It was amazing. We had a vast circle of friends, and this was one of the places we frequented.”
It won’t be the place to go anymore – as the doors locked for one last time behind Knight as he walked out.
A bittersweet moment for CEO Dr. Alistair Dove.
“Visitors arriving and recounting the moments they cherished with their families here,” noted Dove. “Many participated in sleepovers with the whale in the Atlantic tales gallery. If you know, you know. Numerous individuals recounted those experiences with us, and each time, it’s a wonderful encounter.”
The future holds opportunities for fresh experiences as MOSH plans to construct a new facility within the Sports Complex, aiming to open its doors by 2028.
“I’m just relieved that it’s not closing forever,” remarked Juan Abril, who visited MOSH during his visit from Tallahassee. “There’s a hopeful outlook for three years ahead.”
Saying goodbye is still a tough thing to do.
“I want to have more fun,” said Abril’s young daughter.
MOSH will take the show on the road for the next few years during construction on the new building.
That starts with an event at 11 o’clock Saturday, Sept. 6, at James Weldon Johnson in downtown.
