The Children’s Museum of Richmond just welcomed a new prehistoric friend.
Stan the T. Rex, a life-size replica of one of the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever discovered, has found a new permanent home at CMoR’s downtown location on Broad Street.
First discovered in 1987 near Buffalo, South Dakota, the fossilized skeleton of Stan is considered one of the most complete T. rex specimens in the world, with 65% of its bones recovered.
CMoR’s replica — crafted by paleontological experts at Black Hills Institute of Geological Research — captures every detail of the prehistoric predator.
At 40-feet-long and 14-feet-high, Stan is the same length as a GRTC bus and the only full-size T. rex replica on display in Virginia.
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“As we think about the formative experiences from our youth, that ‘WOW’ factor is something that sticks with us,” Danielle Ripperton, executive director, said. “Discovering Stan in person will inspire questions, learning, career paths, and so much more as soon as children and families enter our Broad Street location. We are thrilled for BIG things to come at CMoR.”
Before coming to the museum, Stan previously stood at the Great Minds Richmond office, inspiring their education team.
“Dinosaurs evoke awe in all of us,” Lynne Munson, former CEO of Great Minds, said. “For years, Stan has inspired the Great Minds team to embed that awe into mathematics, English, and science curriculum used by students nationwide. I am thrilled to know that Stan will delight children, their families, and the broader Richmond community for years to come in his new home.”
Stan will be accessible to children and families throughout Central Virginia through programs such as Museums for All, scholarship memberships, field trip support, and sensory-friendly nights, at free or reduced cost.
The T. Rex replica will also help launch future programming and engagement at the Museum.