The exhibition halls are quiet. The parking garage is empty. Our butterflies continue to flutter around the Cockrell Butterfly Center. A few scattered staff members tend to our wildlife collection, our dinosaurs, and all of those precious gems and minerals.

You could say the museum is resting while the rest of the world fights this virus.

Even though patrons cannot visit the museum at this time, HMNS faithful can still contribute to our scientific mission via a special auction site that recently went live online. Additionally, 100 percent of the proceeds from this special OneCause charitable auction are going back to the museum’s educational programming. 

Latha Thomas, HMNS senior VP of marketing and retail operations, tells Beyond Bones that the auction was chosen because it’s such a fun way to help the museum

“During these uncertain times, we saw that there was a need for many creative solutions to the challenges we face,” Thomas says. “A financial donation is always extremely helpful of course. Donations can be made online through our website, through the auction, a phone call or even mail.”

What’s included in the auction?

One-of-a-kind specimens, fossils, and plaques. Artisan-made jewelry from some of our amazing partners like Rebecca Lankford, one of the most influential jewelry designers based in Houston. Unique mineral carvings bound to be conversation pieces are also up for grabs, plus exquisite gems and geodes that delight the eye and the imagination.

Thomas can’t even figure out what her favorite item is in the current auction.

“That’s like asking to pick your favorite child,” Thomas says. “Honestly, there’s something of interest for everyone. And with numerous price ranges to fit numerous budgets.”

Thomas, like the rest of the museum staff, can’t wait to get back to work on our science mission.

“Our mission is science education, from our films to our exhibitions and halls to all our programs, everything revolves around science education,” Thomas says.

This auction ends on Thursday, April 9 at 8 a.m. and there are plenty of unique items for every budget and fancy.

Finding ways to creatively bring science to you is our highest priority and your contributions matter today more than ever. As we strive to continue full pay for staff during this time and ensure that the museum is ready and able to welcome you back. Please GIVE TODAY to help support our mission of science education.