In 1968, Pennsylvania’s most complete skeleton of an ancient mastodon was found in Marshalls Creek, Monroe County. Mastodons, members of the proboscidean family, were elephant-like herbivores that lived during the Cenozoic Era (66 million years ago and continues to present day).

Inspired by this discovery, Ms. Ferrara’s educational and entertaining presentation explores the fascinating history behind this extinct mammal that once roamed the Commonwealth over 12,000 years ago. Viewers learn how these majestic beasts received their name, dispel common myths and misconceptions, explore the archaeological excavation, and review the conflicting media reports regarding the discovery and recovery of the mastodon bones.

The Marshalls Creek mastodon skeleton is on permanent display at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg.

This program is a PA Forward® Initiative Promoting Civic and Social Literacy and is made possible by using the PA Forward® Virtual Program Collection Library.