Kathleen Smith, university archivist, stumbled upon a plaster cast of a plesiosaur when Director of Logistics and Access Services Scott Markin called her to investigate what was initially thought to be a bronze bust in the basement, according to a university press release. Instead, they found a large plaster cast of prehistoric bones tucked behind an old filing cabinet. 

The Evolutionary Studies Initiative confirmed the discovery as the cast of a plesiosaur fossil which had been missing since the 1960s. Although the cast is missing its head,  it would reach nearly 24 feet in length when pieced together. The plesiosaur cast dates back to the 1870s and was displayed in an on-campus museum in Science Hall before being moved to College Hall and later Kirkland Hall, its last known location. The original fossil was transported to the National Museum of Ireland, and this cast is one of six remaining in the world. 

“There is just something that draws you to certain things and makes you feel like you’re Indiana Jones unraveling an ancient mystery,” Martin said. “The plaster casts were one of those, and it is just icing on the cake that they ended up being important. Finding these kinds of artifacts that connect you with significant events reminds me that Vanderbilt has been making an impact for a long time and has a rich history.”

Jacob Sauer, archaeology and anthropology professor, said a museum on campus led by the History of Art Department would be beneficial to both Vanderbilt students and the Nashville community. 

“I hope the cast discovery sparks a conversation about investing in something like a natural history museum on campus or nearby, where we can showcase both paleontological and archaeological materials that the university has acquired over the years,” Sauer said.

Sophomore William Song lives in Branscomb and expressed his excitement regarding the discovery. 

“This adds to why I think Vanderbilt is special — a beautiful campus, awesome people and now a fossil, too,” Song said. “I wonder what might be hidden beneath other buildings on campus.”