MBL Reopens Pierce Exhibit Center

While Woods Hole held its annual science-themed Fourth of July parade, one of its most important scientific institutions, the , celebrated the reopening of its renovated and refurbished Pierce Exhibit Center and Gift Shop. The center, located at 100 Water Street, provides visitors the perfect place to get acquainted with the MBL's mission and history, and what the lab means to Woods Hole, Falmouth, and the Cape.

The small space is packed with fun and educational exhibits, including live animal tanks, underwater video footage, a working microscope with plenty of slides, and an interactive squid model. The MBL's gift shop offers souvenirs for all ages, including toys, games, books, clothing, and jewelry.

According to a statement released by the MBL, “The Pierce Exhibit Center is dedicated to the memory of Robert W. Pierce, an MBL trustee from 1990 to 1993 and a respected member of the Woods Hole community. Born in Boston and raised in Milton, Mr. Pierce was a lieutenant with the Coast Guard and later founded Pierce Aluminum Company, a wholesale distributor of aluminum products based in Canton, Massachusetts.

“Beyond his naval accomplishments and business acumen, Mr. Pierce was an insightful leader, someone who embodied excellence in judgment, respect for individual differences, and a determination to succeed. He introduced the MBL to his wide circle of friends, so it is fitting that this exhibit center—the place where many people form their first impression of the institution—is dedicated to him.”

The new exhibit center will be open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., for the rest of the summer, and Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., in September and October, before closing for the winter.