Welcome to the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum, a unique destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of paleontology and creationist beliefs. Founded by Otis Kline, this museum is not just another stop on Montana’s famous Dinosaur Trail. It stands out as the second-largest dinosaur museum in the state, offering over 20,000 square feet of exhibits that challenge conventional scientific narratives with a young Earth creationist perspective.
The story of the museum begins in the early 2000s when Kline, backed by the non-profit organization Advancing Creation Truth, conceived a space that would present dinosaurs and fossils through the lens of Biblical history. Built between 2005 and 2009, largely with volunteer labor, the museum’s construction was valued at about $4 million. This monumental effort was supported by donations, including significant contributions from the Gianforte Family Foundation, which helped fund key exhibits like the Tyrannosaurus rex and Acrocanthosaurus.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the impressive sight of a T. rex model bursting through the wall, setting the stage for an experience that seeks to reinterpret the fossil record. The museum posits that humans and non-avian dinosaurs coexisted and that dinosaurs were aboard Noah’s Ark, aligning with a literal interpretation of the Bible’s Genesis narrative.
One of the most engaging aspects of the museum is its interactive exhibits. Guests can walk over a glass bridge suspended above a recreated sea floor, marveling at life-sized casts of marine creatures like the mosasaur and the opalized Umoonasaurus. The museum uses these displays to invite visitors to consider alternative explanations for fossil formations and the history of life on Earth.
Despite its unconventional approach, the museum plays a significant role in the broader debate between creationism and evolution. It has attracted both intrigue and criticism from the scientific community, with notable paleontologists like Jack Horner expressing skepticism about its scientific validity. In 2015, the museum became the center of a controversy when it was revealed that local schools had been bringing students on field trips, prompting discussions about the separation of church and state.
Beyond the museum, Glendive itself is a place rich with history and natural beauty. The area is home to Makoshika State Park, renowned for its badlands and fossil discoveries, and the Yellowstone River, which offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Together, these attractions make Glendive a compelling destination for those interested in exploring both the ancient past and the ongoing conversation about how we interpret it.
