Welcome to a fascinating journey into the world of paleontology and the incredible story of Big Sara, an allosaurus with a unique tale to tell. This article will delve into the recent arrival of Big Sara at the Etches Museum, exploring the significance of this ancient predator's presence and the impact it may have on the museum and its visitors.
A Prehistoric Star Arrives
Big Sara, an allosaurus with a 150-million-year-old story, has found a new home on the Jurassic Coast, bringing a touch of prehistoric awe to Dorset. This magnificent creature, standing at an impressive three and a half meters tall, has become the star attraction at The Etches Collection, offering a rare glimpse into the past.
A Generous Loan
What makes this story particularly intriguing is the generosity of Poole businessman James Benamor. He purchased Big Sara at auction for a whopping £3 million and has loaned her to the museum for the next two years. This act of kindness not only benefits the museum but also allows the public to connect with a piece of history.
Connecting Land and Sea
From February 28, 2026, the museum will showcase a unique exhibit, featuring both land and sea predators. Big Sara, with her nearly complete skeleton, will stand alongside the skull of Kimmeridge's famous Sea Rex pliosaur. This display highlights the connection between terrestrial and marine life during the Jurassic period, offering a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem.
A Rare Insight
One aspect that immediately stands out is the preservation of Big Sara's skeleton, with over 70% of it intact. This rarity provides an incredible opportunity to study the life and challenges faced by a large carnivorous dinosaur. The healed injuries on her ribs offer a glimpse into the violent encounters she endured, adding a layer of depth to our understanding of prehistoric life.
Supporting a Museum's Vision
Founder Steve Etches expresses his gratitude for Benamor's decision to loan Big Sara to the museum. He highlights the challenges museums face during tough financial times and the importance of public support. The arrival of Big Sara is seen as a potential boost for the museum, attracting more visitors and raising awareness about the value of museums as heritage sites.
A Jurassic Legacy
Allosaurus, a cousin of the famous T-Rex, lived millions of years before its more well-known relative. Its name, meaning 'different' or 'strange' lizard, is a nod to its unique vertebral structure. This dinosaur has captured the imagination of many, including the BBC series 'Walking with Dinosaurs', which brought it to life for a global audience.
Future Plans and Challenges
While Big Sara takes center stage, the museum continues to plan the excavation of its pliosaur skeleton, featured in the BBC documentary 'Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster'. Steve Etches emphasizes the urgency of this excavation, as time is of the essence to preserve the remaining valuable parts of the skeleton.
A Potential Expansion
If the full Sea Rex skeleton is recovered, an extension to the museum is being considered. This expansion would create a unique center showcasing predatory marine creatures, becoming a global attraction. The Natural History Museum's marine room, unchanged for 150 years, highlights the need for dynamic and innovative exhibitions, a vision The Etches Collection aims to fulfill.
A Jurassic Evening
To further engage the public, a Jurassic-themed evening is planned at The Mowlem Theatre, featuring a screening of the documentary 'Pliosaurus - The Discovery of a Monster'. Emilia Fox, a local celebrity, will introduce the event, adding a touch of star power to the fundraising efforts for the pliosaur excavation.
Conclusion
The arrival of Big Sara at the Etches Museum is more than just a new exhibit; it's a step towards preserving and showcasing our prehistoric past. This allosaurus, with her story of survival and resilience, offers a unique educational experience. As the museum navigates financial challenges, the support of individuals like James Benamor and the public's engagement become crucial in ensuring the survival of such heritage sites. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how these ancient creatures continue to captivate and educate us, bringing people together in their awe and curiosity.
