A Glimpse into Nevada’s Unique Heritage

Nevada is known for its peculiar charm and unique history, exhibiting an array of fascinating facts that ignite pride among its residents. The state celebrates its admission into the Union with Nevada Day, a public holiday complete with parades in Carson City. From the heroic voyages of the battleship USS Nevada during the attack on Pearl Harbor to the literary legacy of Mark Twain’s early journalism in a Nevada publication, the state boasts a cultural tapestry that is both rich and varied. Additionally, Nevadans take particular delight in their unique debates over the correct pronunciation of “Nevada.”

The Ichthyosaur: A Forgotten Giant of the Oceans

Among these distinctive traits is Nevada’s deep appreciation for the ichthyosaur, a prehistoric marine reptile that dominated the seas during the Triassic period approximately 250 million years ago. Its fossilized remains are scattered throughout Nevada’s arid regions, sparking intrigue and scientific study.

“There is a reason the ichthyosaur is the state fossil of Nevada.” — Dr. Martin Sander

Recognized officially as Nevada’s state fossil in 1977, the ichthyosaur is celebrated in numerous ways: it is featured prominently in state parks, museums, local breweries, and it even inspires new artistic endeavors at the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno.

Deep Time Exhibition Opens at Nevada Museum of Art

Launching on September 7, 2023, the exhibition titled “Deep Time: Sea Dragons of Nevada” will run until January 11, 2026. This expansive 9,000-square-foot showcase intertwines paleontology, art, history, and design to narrate the story of the ichthyosaur. Co-curated by Ann M. Wolfe from the Nevada Museum of Art and Dr. Martin Sander from the University of Bonn, the exhibit promises an educational journey filled with never-before-seen ichthyosaur fossils, including samples from significant excavations dating back to the early 1900s.

Paleontological Treasures Unveiled

The exhibition will also highlight:

• Historical specimens excavated by Annie Alexander in the early 20th century.
• A collection of new species discovered in the Augusta Mountains, notably the giant ichthyosaur that dwarfed contemporaneous species.
• Rarely seen fossils and significant paleoart that invites visitors to imagine these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.

Dr. Sander emphasizes that Nevada serves as a hotspot for ichthyosaur diversity, noting, “All the interesting parts in ichthyosaur evolution happened in the Triassic, and the hot spot is Nevada.”

An Immersive Experience Through Time

Visitors will experience a time-traveling journey through an engaging light installation named “Swell” by artist Anthony McCall, designed to simulate an ancient underwater environment. The exhibit features a life-sized animated ichthyosaur, allowing guests to understand the scale of these colossal creatures and even swim alongside virtual versions of them.

Honoring Pioneers in Paleontology

The exhibit also pays tribute to Mary Anning, who discovered the first ichthyosaur fossil in Britain in 1811, while celebrating Annie Alexander’s contributions through photographs and diary entries from her groundbreaking expeditions. These narratives emphasize the integral role of female scientists in paleontological history.

Additionally, an illustrated children’s book titled “Annie Alexander’s Amazing Adventure” aims to educate young readers about fossil discoveries through engaging storytelling and vivid illustrations.

Culinary Partnerships and Community Involvement

The relationship between paleontological research and local culture is highlighted by a partnership with Great Basin Brewery. Their Icky IPA bears the ichthyosaur’s likeness, symbolizing a community connection to the scientific exploration of Nevada’s prehistoric past. Brewery owner Tom Young has actively supported excavation efforts, further bridging the gap between local commerce and scientific discovery.

“The more I think about it, the cooler it is,” Young reflects on the ichthyosaur’s significance.