0.S. Quammen, a pioneer of the West River Country, became interested in pieces of petrified wood found in abundant numbers on the prairies. An amateur geologist, he enlisted the aid of government geologists to study the area.
Bones of mammoth prehistoric animals were uncovered. Fish, snails, grass and leaves of trees were found to be perfectly preserved by petrifaction. In 1930, Quammen decided to select the finest specimens and place them on exhibit in an artistic form in order that everyone might enjoy their strangeness and beauty.
In 1954, the park became the property of the city when Mr. Quammen’s heirs, under stipulations for up-keep and development, transferred it. Since its opening in 1932, tourists from all 50 states and many foreign countries have visited the park and museum.