Mayborn's Mammoth Bronzes
These sculptures not only enrich our community but also serve as a testament to the rich history and significance of mammoths in Central Texas.
History of Mammoths
Mammoths were majestic creatures that roamed the earth during the Ice Age. Known for their colossal size, with some species standing as tall as 14 feet and weighing up to 20,000 pounds, mammoths played a crucial role in the ecosystems of their time. Their presence in prehistoric times continues to captivate scientists and history enthusiasts alike.
Mammoths in Central Texas
In Central Texas, mammoths once roamed the land we now call home. Among the most significant discoveries in this region are the fossil specimens of Columbian mammoths, which provide the nation's first and only recorded evidence of a nursery herd of these ice age giants. These fossils, standing as a reminder of the past, highlight the mammoths' importance and their enduring legacy.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
The Waco Mammoth National Monument stands as a pivotal site in paleontology. In 1978, Paul Barron and Eddie Bufkin discovered a large bone near the Bosque River, leading to the unearthing of a Columbian mammoth femur. This discovery, examined by Baylor University's Strecker Museum, marked the beginning of extensive excavations that revealed 16 Columbian mammoths between 1978 and 1990. Subsequent discoveries included a large bull mammoth, a Western camel, dwarf antelope, American alligator, giant tortoise, and a juvenile saber-toothed cat tooth.
Museum staff, students, and volunteers have dedicated countless hours to preserving these fossils. While many of the excavated remains are housed at Baylor University's Mayborn Museum Complex, the majority of specimens remain in situ, protected by a climate-controlled Dig Shelter for public viewing and further study.
The Artist: Tom Tischler
Tom Tischler, a master of lost wax bronze sculptures, has dedicated 28 years to creating lifelike representations of wildlife. His passion for wildlife began in his childhood exploring Austin, Texas, and later deepened through his work with the Zoological Museum of Zurich and the Ethiopian Conservation Organization. His extensive travels and experience have fueled his artistic vision.
Tom's sculptures, renowned for their anatomical precision and lifelike quality, are treasured in museums and zoos worldwide. Working from his home studio in Perth, Western Australia, he meticulously crafts each piece, producing only a few originals each year due to the labor-intensive nature of bronze sculpting. His dedication to research and observation ensures that each sculpture reflects the true essence of its subject.
Inspiration and Vision
Tom Tischler's bronze mammoths are inspired by precise measurements from the Waco Mammoth National Monument, ensuring scientific accuracy. These sculptures, composed of 270 pieces and weighing a total of 14,000 pounds, stand 27 feet tall and embody both artistic mastery and paleontological significance.
Visitor Information
The Bronze Mammoths exhibit is open for viewing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The museum itself welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM daily. Join us to explore these magnificent sculptures and delve into the rich history they represent.
Support Our Work
Your support is vital to our ongoing work. Contributions through donations, memberships, or volunteering help us preserve and share the legacy of the mammoths. Learn how you can make a difference and support our mission.Opportunities
- A gift of $5,000 includes a 2.5 inch bronze mammoth cast.
- A gift of $15,000 includes an 8.4 inch bronze mammoth cast.
- Upper-level donors will have the opportunity for a 12 inch mammoth cast.
Interested donors can contact Charles Walter (Charles_Walter@baylor.edu) for additional information.
Checks payable to:
Baylor University, Mayborn Museum
One Bear Place #97154
Waco, TX 76798-7154