Friends of the Natural History Museum Paris

The Friends of the Natural History Museum (French: Société des Amis du Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle et du Jardin des Plantes or Les Amis du Muséum) is a French non-profit organisation (association loi 1901), created in 1907 and recognized as a charity (reconnue d'utilité publique) in 1926. Its purpose is to give practical and financial support to the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris, France, enrich its collections, zoo, laboratories, greenhouses, gardens and libraries, and to promote scientific research and education related to it. Les Amis du Muséum was founded in 1907 by Edmond Perrier anatomist, zoologist and Director of the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. With the success of colonial exhibitions in the early 20th century, many people became interested in the new discoveries being made, but the Muséum could not afford new acquisitions. Perrier decided to create an organisation to support the actions of the Muséum, and assist in their funding. With President Léon Bourgeois, then president of the French Senate, Perrier created Les Amis du Muséum. There were many famous personalities among the first members: Raymond Poincaré, Emile Loubet, Paul Doumer and Prince Albert I of Monaco. Their political power was useful in helping to acquire new specimens as well as enhancing the flow of financial aid. In 1909, Les Amis du Muséum acquired its first specimen, an ichthyosaur currently on display in the Gallery of Palaeontology. From the beginning, Les Amis du Muséum organized various activities for its members. 1913 saw the first publication of Les Amis du Muséum, Nouvelles du Muséum, it served to inform members of the activities of the Muséum and is the ancestor of the current Bulletin. It already included at least one scientific paper per issue, such as the number 1933. Numerous issues have been published since despite shutdowns caused by war and lack of funds. The Bulletin continues to be published quarterly and is free for members of Les Amis du Muséum. Since 2012, the Bulletin includes a supplement aimed at younger members.