What began as a childhood dream has become a destination for fossil enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
The inspiration for the museum started during a family trip to Scotland, where Anderson visited a small museum founded by a teenager. At just 7 years old, he returned home determined to open a museum of his own. Although local officials were initially unsure about the ambitious idea, Anderson’s persistence eventually convinced them that he was serious, leading to the creation of the Cambridge Natural History Museum.
John Taylor shared that while Anderson had already created a small museum at home with his brother, it quickly became clear this wasn’t simply a passing childhood interest. As Anderson’s passion continued to grow, the family worked together to help turn his vision into reality.
Today, the museum houses an impressive and continually expanding collection of fossils, minerals, and natural history artifacts from around the world. During the conversation, Anderson showcased several of his favorite pieces, including a cross-section of a mastodon tusk that had originally been mistaken for petrified wood. A recent trip to Alaska helped confirm its true identity after he compared it with mammoth ivory on display in a rock shop.
The collection also includes fossils of the Tully monster, Illinois’ official state fossil. Anderson explained why the mysterious prehistoric creature continues to fascinate scientists and described how one specimen in the museum even helped identify a fossilized predator-prey interaction that had previously gone unnoticed.
Another crowd favorite is a sealed rock containing an unidentified object that rattles when shaken. While many assume it contains a loose crystal inside a geode, Anderson has resisted opening it, hoping one day technology such as a CT scan will reveal its secret without destroying the specimen.
The museum’s exhibits also feature impressive prehistoric finds such as a large megalodon tooth, crocodile vertebrae discovered in Colorado, and numerous fossils collected through years of dedicated searching. Anderson recalled finding his very first fossil in his family’s driveway at just 3 years old after watching a television program about dinosaurs. That discovery sparked the lifelong passion that eventually led to the opening of the museum.
The conversation also explored Anderson’s growing knowledge of paleontology. He discussed recent scientific discoveries, fossil classification, and how new species continue to be identified today. While he jokingly described himself as a junior scientist, his enthusiasm and understanding of natural history reflect years of independent study and hands-on experience.
Beyond celebrating his world record, Anderson also shared the museum’s future goals. The family is currently raising funds to pay off the museum building and eventually renovate the upstairs apartment into an overnight space for visitors. The museum recently celebrated significant growth, expanding from a single display case to more than a dozen exhibits thanks to donations and new discoveries.
During the school year, the Cambridge Natural History Museum is typically open on weekends and by appointment, while summer hours offer greater flexibility.
As Anderson continues to grow both personally and professionally, his museum serves as a reminder that age is no barrier to pursuing big dreams. What started with curiosity, determination, and a fossil found in a driveway has evolved into a nationally recognized museum and a Guinness World Record achievement that continues to inspire visitors of all ages.
For more information, you can visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/cambridgenaturalhistory or visit the museum in person at 132 W Center Street, Cambridge, IL.
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