SCIENCE MILL

MEET THE NEIGHBORS

OF JOHNSON CITY

A family destination offering a fun, interactive learning environment for all ages.

BY MICHELLE BANSE STOKES, PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDERSON

Upon first impression, Science Mill appears to be a cross between a vast technology exhibition and a child’s dream of a playground. A self-described family destination offering a fun, interactive learning environment for all ages, the captivating hands-on exhibits have a way of sparking curiosity in museumgoers of all ages.

PETER CLAFFEY

The facility, originally a steam grist mill and cotton gin built in 1880, houses over 50 exhibits with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math, also known as STEM. Peter Claffey, chief executive officer, is excited to share how they are reaching out to the public and, most importantly, to the next generation of scientists. “The mission of the Science Mill is to inspire all students and give them

confidence in STEM,” shared Peter. “We’re giving them the tools and support needed to reach their full potential as skilled members of our twenty-first century STEM workforce. We strive to see a world where all kids can do that, regardless of economics, location, gender or race and have equal access to STEM programming and content so that they can really see themselves in a STEM career. We want them to see the full breadth of opportunities out there for them.” With over 20 years in the museum business, Peter’s main roles include creating sustainability for the programs and engaging opportunities for the staff. However, even with his busy schedule, he does manage to sneak away for some hands-on moments with visitors. “I do get to slide out of the office when nobody’s looking and play with the kids,” laughed Peter. “I love to see the wow moments. One of my favorite exhibits is the Fractalarium. It puts mathematics, art, and biology together in the model based on Romanesco Broccoli. The broccoli takes JOHNSON CITY, TEXAS | 18

the form of a fractal – a complex geometrical shape that looks the same at every scale factor. Though the exhibit has an infinitely increasing perimeter, you’ll be surprised to know that it has no area as the dimensions of each fractal become so small, they advance into nonexistence! I walk by and I’m just like a kid watching it light up and change shapes. There’s nothing like that exhibit anywhere in the world and we have it right here in Johnson City.”

While traditional museums tend to have a focus more on the past than the present, Science Mill is a modern flurry of activity that is truly a global fixture for the future.

“We bring world-class science and engaging activities into communities across Texas,” added Peter. “We’re doing things on a national level right here in Johnson City. I think that’s really fascinating to think about. I’ve been in the industry for a long time and when I see what goes into what we do, I’m just blown away. You could stack Science Mill against any museum in the country. It’s an immersive experience.”

Science Mill is located at 101 South Lady Bird Lane and online at sciencemill.org.