Gray Fossil Site celebrates 25-year anniversary
GRAY, Tenn. (WJHL) – What started as a small discovery in 2000 is now a popular attraction in the Tri-Cities. 25 years after that discovery, the Gray Fossil Site continues to evolve, with new discoveries every day.
On Saturday, the Fossil Site kicked off its 25th anniversary celebration, a milestone many couldn't believe had already arrived.
'Most people are like, 'No way, I can't believe it's been 25 years since that time,'' said Executive Director Blaine Shubert. 'But to really update the public on all of the amazing discoveries that we've actually had and also showcase some of the new exhibits we've developed, too.'
Throughout the event, ETSU Paleontology students, fossil site employees and volunteers presented their research to the public. Schubert said with the recent addition of the Hands On! Discovery Center, the site has evolved into a place of learning for all.
'So you have these two entities in one place and an academic program to where the students are getting to be involved in not only things like excavation, but building exhibits, doing outreach programs here at the museum,' he said. 'And so we just continue to grow and diversify.'
Recent ETSU graduate and Collections Assistant Derek Den Ouden said he's thankful to have been a part of the site's 25-year history.
'It's been really fantastic and awesome to be a part of the broader gray fossil site experience and contribute my name to the legacy that we've established over the past 25 years,' he said.
Now that the site has reached the 25-year milestone, Den Ouden said he's excited to see what the next 25 years will bring.
'We're always digging and there's always some surprise,' he said. 'So I'm really hopeful that we'll find some really exceptional stuff in the next 25 years.'
Schubert said Saturday's event is the kick-off for a year-long celebration.
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