Eohippus Life Reconstruction Model

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Eohippus was a small, forest-dwelling horse that lived in North America about 55 million years ago. Unlike most animals, the intermediate evolutionary steps that lead from Eohippus to the modern horse are clearly demonstrated in the fossil record. Because we have such a clear understanding of their lineage, horses have become a particularly important example in explaining how evolution works. 

Fossils of many of these intermediate horses can be found in Oregon, but since moving here I have found that most Oregonians are unaware of their own state's significant prehistoric past. In an effort to change that and create interest such subjects I proposed making this model, and I received funding assistance from the Regional Arts and Culture Council. Dr. Nick Famous, chief paleontologist at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, provided a science review. After being included in several educational events, including an exhibit at the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, the model found a permanent home at the Geological Museum at University of Wyoming.