Join our museum’s Gallery Guides for a “drop-in” tour highlighting the remarkable scientific properties of natural dyes and textiles, the technology behind synthetic clothing, and the impact of fashion on human health and the environment. 

Have you ever thought about the science behind the contents of your closet? The technology that produces our modern clothing is the result of an unlikely collaboration between prehistoric humans, an 18-year-old chemist in Victorian London, and a Harvard professor employed by DuPont on the eve of World War II.  

Our Dyes & Textiles Tour bridges content from our BOLD exhibition and our permanent exhibition, offering a broad picture of the scientific developments that shifted clothing production from the home to the factory to the laboratory. 


Drop-in tours are free and no reservations are necessary.

More events

Illustration of three microscopes.
August 30, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: Wellness Month

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

opened book of dye samples looking like bowties
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First Fridays

First Friday: Books, Meet Their Makers!

Explore historic sample books and accompanying art by members of the Guild of Book Workers.

View inside the Jacobs Reading Room
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Library Programs & Activities

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

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