THE RURBAN FRINGE

The Dinosaur Capital of the World

Posted on | August 7, 2009 | No Comments

FossilsIs the Town of Drumheller - with a population of just under 8,000 people – the Dinosaur Capital of the World? 

The Smithsonian Institute, the world’s largest museum and related research organization, thinks it could be.

Located in the heart of the Canadian Badlands, Drumheller is home to the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum and skirts Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 1884, Joseph Burr Tyrrell discovered ancient remains and uncovered a wealth of dinosaur specimens in the valley.  Since then, the land in and around Drumheller has been the palaeotological centre of Canada … and arguably, the world.

Drumheller currently holds the title against a handful of other competitors including Glen Rose, Texas and Liaoning, China.

Having worked with great individuals from the Drumheller area and having visited the region’s many attractions, there is no doubt in my mind that Drumheller deserves this title. 

More than just a tourist mecca – although tourism is a major economic driver – the area’s excavations and research activities also foster investments in learning and help create a culture of innovation that further encourages community-centred entrepreneurial and business development. 

Drumheller is the Dinosaur Capital of the World.  And, rightly or wrongly, this will always play a part in its development and diversification.

Click here to cast your vote – and voice your comments - in the Smithsonian-sponsored online poll.

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UPDATE:  Thanks to supporters everywhere, Drumheller is indeed The Dinosaur Capital of the World … with another Smithsonian poll now asking readers what they feel the top museum is to see dinosaurs.  People are asked to vote online here (September 3, 2009).

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