New York State Museum Earthquake Center
Ongoing Exhibition
Most people think of California when they hear the word earthquake. However, New York State experiences about four small earthquakes each month and occasionally people do feel the movement of the ground. The New York State Museum’s earthquake exhibit features real-time display of earthquakes in New York and around the world.
Seismic Activity
Interactive displays include a real-time seismographic showcase, allowing you to observe ongoing seismic activity around the world and understand how earthquakes are measured. From minor tremors to the notable 1944 St. Lawrence County quake, this exhibit provides a comprehensive look at New York's earthquake history, impact, and monitoring.
Geological Specimens on View
This exhibit features a captivating array of geological specimens, including folded, faulted, and polished rocks that vividly illustrating the forces created during quakes.
Fun Facts: Did you know?!
- Hundreds of earthquakes have and continue to occur in and near New York. These are mostly small events located within about nine miles of the surface.
- On September 4, 1944, New York endured it's largest earthquake measuring 5.8. Centered between Massena, NY, and Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, it caused an estimated two million dollars in damage to the two cities.
- Other notable New York earthquakes include the 5.5 magnitude quake in New York City in 1884, the magnitude 5.6 quake in Attica in 1929, and the 5.1 magnitude quake in Blue Mountain Lake in 1983..
View this Exhibit Online!
Visit this online feature to learn more about the Earthquake! exhibit, to access resources that monitor seismic activity in upstate New York, and to view the geological specimens that illustrate the effects of earthquake forces.