Bird Collection

Pheasant

Elizabeth Dickens began collecting birds she found on Block Island in 1909. She sent them to a Providence taxidermist to have them preserved. Over time, her collection became too numerous to be stored in her home. Furthermore, in order to fulfill Elizabeth Dickens’ desire that people appreciate and protect one of Block Island’s great natural resources, the bird collection needed to be displayed where it could be used for educational purposes and where professional and recreational bird watchers could view the birds. Because Miss Dickens taught the bird study program at the Block Island School this seemed the most logical location. Island residents raised the funds for permanent cases and in 1936 the birds were moved to the school.

The Bird collection includes birds commonly sighted on Block Island such as the pheasant, as well as more unusual specimens. Three such examples are noted here. A bridled tern, sighted on Block Island in 1960, was the first record of the species in Rhode Island. The Ruddy Shelduck, found on October 8,1951, was the third record in North America. All birds in the collection were found on or near Block Island. The birds continue to be housed at he Block Island school. Those interested in viewing the birds should contact Kim Gaffett on Block Island.