One display at the Huron County Museum has been captivating visitors for generations: the two-headed calves.
These intriguing specimens, both born in the early to mid-twentieth century, have become an enduring part of the region’s history and a cherished landmark for locals and visitors alike.
Sinead Cox, Curator of Engagement and Dialogue at the Huron County Museum and historic Gaol, shed light on the fascinating backstory of these remarkable creatures.
One of the calves, a heifer with a lumpy appearance, was born in the 1920s near Walton, while the other, a bull calf, hails from Colborne and entered the world in the 1930s.
The calves were preserved by taxidermy, thanks to the foresight of Joseph Herbert Neill, the museum’s first curator. Neill was a creative and resourceful individual who lived within the museum premises and even constructed his own elevator. He recognized the historical and educational value of these two-headed calves, ensuring they became a permanent part of the museum’s collection.
Since 1951, generations of field trip-goers have marveled at these calves. Local residents fondly recall their childhood visits to the museum, where the two-headed calves were a highlight.
The calves teach visitors about polycephaly, a natural phenomenon that results in creatures with multiple heads. This quirk of nature provides an opportunity to delve into genetics and natural history, making science accessible and engaging for all ages.
While taxidermy has experienced periods of popularity in various museums, these two-headed calves are something of a rarity. They’ve become an emblem of the museum, attracting attention and admiration from visitors worldwide.
Visitors can buy stuffed animals of the two headed calves at the gift shop – a popular choice for young visitors.
Cox noted that there’s no intention to move them due to their age and delicate nature, leaving them as a permanent fixture that makes the Huron County Museum truly unique.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
