Some objects in museum collections bring us more questions than answers. This exhibit highlights objects that make us scratch our heads. Look at the photo above and see if you can guess What Is It?
The Mystery
This animal skull was discovered in central Ohio, but is not an animal native to this area.
What exotic animal is it?
How did it get here?
Why is it at the Ohio Historical Society?
Clue #1
Using simple observation, look at details like the horns, the size of the eyes and the size of the skull. From experience, what type of animal does this look like?
Clue #2
Looking at archival material, you can find examples of events like the one seen in this advertisement, which would bring exotic animals to Central Ohio.
Answer:
Giraffe Skull
Found in May 1973, this giraffe skull was donated by a pair of brothers from New Albany, Ohio. Since giraffes are native to Africa, it is most likely that this giraffe died while with a traveling circus many years before this discovery and was buried on the land that later become the boys' backyard.
(N 12227)