In 1986, John R. Cook, Sr., founder and sponsor of Cook's Natural Science Museum, was presented the prestigious W. Kelly Mosely Environmental Award for achievements in forestry, wildlife and related resources. The Mosely Award seeks to publicly recognize and support achievements or proposed endeavors which will result in the wiser use of renewable forest resources. The program is administered by Auburn University and made possible by a gift from an Auburn alumnus, Dr. W. Kelly Mosley of Atlanta, Ga., and the John and Mary Franklin Foundation. Cook's Natural Science Museum is one of the few museums in the United States to display both a bald eagle and a golden eagle. Museum displays include birds, butterflies, insects, snakes and numerous other species of animal life.
Displays feature interactive exhibits, talking exhibits, live exhibits and touching exhibits.
All taxidermy is done by professionals and is of museum quality. The Tennessee Valley Lake Exhibit features more than 50 species of insects, animals and water life from the Tennessee Valley region of the United States. 719 6th Ave.