Museologist

Interior of National Museum of Victoria at the University of Melbourne c.1873, showcasing McCoy's Museum curatorship.

In 1856 McCoy presented his vision of the function, nature and scope of modern museums his paper Museums in Victoria.

It is only within the last few years that our countrymen are beginning to find out that, under proper direction, and as managed in modern times, museums become the most ready and effectual means of communicating the knowledge and practical experience of the experienced few to the many...

This paper was effectively a pre-emptive application for the position of Museum Director. Seeing himself as one of the 'experienced few', McCoy confidently stated that such a position required 'a man of established reputation and varied scientific knowledge'.

Exterior view of the Museum featuring the articulated whale skeleton.

In July 1856 and with the tacit support of the Government McCoy seized the moment. Having the existing collections packed in their cramped conditions in the Assays office in Latrobe Street and hurriedly moved to a temporary location, under his care at the University.

Over the next forty years McCoy created the finest biological collection in the Southern Hemisphere, 'growing a museum' that was comparable to many in Europe and the United States and one which surpassed that of any other British colony.

The legacy of his discerning purchases formed the backbone on which the current collection is based. The Lowland Gorillas, Asiatic One Horned Rhinoceros, Wallace's Red Bird of Paradise and Humming Birds were acquired by McCoy as spectacular 'representatives of generic types from all parts of the world,' remaining on display to this day.

Join the mailing list and get the latest from our Museums direct to your inbox.

Share your thoughts to WIN

We'd love to hear about your experience with our website. Our survey takes less than 10 minutes and entries go in a draw to win a $100 gift voucher at our online store!