Welcome to the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge, a fascinating intersection of history, creativity, and education in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This museum was born out of a community effort that began with a group of dedicated Girl Scouts and their leader, Joyce Maienschein, who envisioned a place where children could learn through interactive play and exploration. Their efforts were supported by a $500 grant from Reader’s Digest, leading to the museum’s opening on March 11, 1973, in the library of the former Jefferson Junior High School. By January 1974, the museum found a more permanent home in the former Highland View Elementary School, a building with its own rich historical significance, having been constructed in 1944 to serve the children of Manhattan Project employees.
Under the guidance of Selma Shapiro, who directed the museum from its early days until 2004, the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge flourished. Shapiro’s leadership and vision were instrumental in expanding the museum’s offerings and cementing its role as a cultural and educational hub. Her dedication earned her the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Gordon Holl Arts Administrator Award and a place on the American Association of Museums Centennial Honor Roll, highlighting her as a pioneer in museum innovation.
The museum not only serves as a playful learning environment for children but also preserves the history of Oak Ridge. It houses significant collections, such as the personal papers of Alvin Weinberg, a key figure in the Manhattan Project, and historical artifacts from the early days of Oak Ridge. Additionally, the museum conducted a notable public education project, “An Appalachian Experience,” which resulted in the publication of ‘An Encyclopedia of East Tennessee.’
What makes this museum truly unique is its ability to connect visitors with the local history of Oak Ridge, a city known as the “Secret City” due to its critical role in the Manhattan Project during World War II. The museum offers exhibits that delve into the region’s participation in the atomic age, providing a broader understanding of Oak Ridge’s historical context.
As you explore the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge, you’ll not only discover engaging exhibits designed to spark the imagination of children but also encounter the stories of the people and events that shaped this remarkable community.
