The new Hill Country Science Mill (HCSM) promises to introduce students to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields using interactive, engaging exhibits and programs. The 14,000 square foot space features 35+ exhibits, sourced globally and many of which are unique to the HCSM. Bonnie Baskin, PhD and the museum's Founder and Chair of the Board, has designed a place where kids can fall in love with science. "You don't fall in love with science by reading about it. You have to do it!"
Baskin and her team spent the last 2½ years sourcing and designing interactive, engaging exhibits. "Many kids have no idea what kinds of opportunities exist for them in science and technology. Our aim is to inspire a large and diverse work force for the future."
The museum is housed in a renovated 1880s grist mill and cotton gin, giving new life to a building that was created for the cutting edge science of its day. The idea for a science museum was born over a few years. "When we first moved to Johnson City, I would drive by the mill all the time. It was derelict and falling apart. It looked like a crazy science experiment!" says Baskin. "Then I heard it was for sale and the idea sparked."
The museum's grand opening is on Saturday, February 14th. Special activities and musical performances have been scheduled to help kick-off the day. Proceeds from the Grand Opening will benefit the Science Mill's Scholarship Program, which will help defray the admission and transportation costs for field trips and enrollment in science programs and camps for qualified students.
Opening day/weekend hours are Saturday, February 14th 10am-6pm; Sunday, February 15 (12-4pm); and Monday, February 16th (President's Day), 10am-4pm.
Regular museum hours are Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm and Sunday 12-4pm. Admission is free for children under 2, $6.50 for ages 2-18 and students, $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for Seniors (65+) and Military.
For more information, please visit www.sciencemill.org, on Twitter @ScienceMill, on Instagram @HillCountryScienceMill and in person at 101 South Lady Bird Lane, Johnson City, Texas, 78636.
