SLV Museums’ new exhibit Crystals Caves & Kilns is now open and will be on display through November 30th 2014. It explores the natural and cultural history of limestone, lime, and marble in our area. By visiting you will learn about the geologic history of our area and how marble caves form. The exhibit includes mineral and crystal specimens, 19th century artifacts, local historic photographs, and activities for the kids.

The exhibit was previously on display at Santa Cruz Natural History Museum, and is sponsored by that museum as well as SLV Water District and the Friends of the Cowell Lime Works Historic District.

At the entrance of the exhibit is a reading cave for the kids with books about cave life. Kids can also add their cave story or drawings with materials that are provided. There is a rock and minerals lab table in the back of the museum, allowing kids to examine and make their own discoveries.

The exhibit also includes information about our local marble quarry, making cement, production of lime, getting lime to market, and the legacy lime has left behind. There is a video playing that talks about a recently discovered cave that is one of the largest in California, as well as the kind of life you find in caves. There are calcite crystals, limestone, marble, travertine, and tufa samples for you to look at up-close and personal. As well as how lime is part of our everyday lives, maps, and how caves need our help to preserve them.

This exhibit has a little bit for everyone and is packed with information. The museum is open every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00noon till 4:00pm.

Where:    San Lorenzo Valley Museum
12547 Highway 9
Boulder Creek, CA 95006

When:    April 26th – November 30th 2014
Wednesdays 12:00noon – 4:00pm
Fridays 12:00noon – 4:00pm
Saturdays 12:00noon – 4:00pm
Sundays 12:00noon – 4:00pm

Website
http://www.slvmuseum.com

Film about the Lime industry in Santa Cruz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWXxDxfLW2I