Cambridge Natural History Museum Purchases Building, Secures Future in Downtown Cambridge

The Cambridge Natural History Museum has secured a permanent home, closing on the purchase of its downtown building at 132 West Center Street on June 24, 2026. The museum was founded by Anderson Taylor, recently recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s youngest male museum curator. Donations, including more than $20,000 raised through GoFundMe, helped fund the down payment. A lease with Apex Clean Energy’s Big Bluestem Wind Project will help cover expenses and pay down the purchase. The museum now plans masonry repairs and future apartment renovations to support operations. Tours are available by appointment through the museum.

The Cambridge Natural History Museum entered a contract-purchase agreement with the Village of Cambridge for the building, rent-free for the past two years. That arrangement gave the growing organization time to establish itself and raise funds. Founder and curator Anderson Taylor opened the museum on August 10th, 2024, when he was just 9 years old. The museum has already drawn visitors from around the globe.

In August 2025, Anderson launched a GoFundMe campaign to help purchase the building, raising more than $20,000 so far for the down payment. Another key piece is a lease agreement with Apex Clean Energy’s Big Bluestem Wind Project, which moved its local office into half the building in April. That lease income is expected to cover ongoing expenses, with extra funds going toward the purchase principal. Museum leaders say the building could be paid off in about three years.

The Cambridge Natural History Museum is focusing first on critical masonry repairs to keep its building safe and sustainable for the future. Once that work is complete, museum leaders plan to renovate the second-story apartment and turn it into a short-term rental for visitors staying in the Cambridge area. The rental would provide overnight lodging while generating a steady income to help support museum operations. Officials say securing the building is key to expanding the museum’s collection, offering educational programs, and welcoming guests for years to come. The museum is open by appointment, with additional hours posted on its “Facebook” page. Private tours can also be arranged.

The Cambridge Natural History Museum is inviting community support as it continues its mission of sparking curiosity about the natural world. Founded by Anderson Taylor, the museum features a growing collection of fossils, minerals, rocks, artifacts, and other specimens that help visitors explore natural history and the stories behind it. Donations can be sent by check to Cambridge Natural History Museum, 132 West Center Street, Cambridge, Illinois, 61238. Contributions are also accepted through PayPal at [email protected] or through “GoFundMe“ by searching “Cambridge Natural History Museum.” For questions or private tours, call 309-704-0110.