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The Bentley Snow Crystal Collection of the Buffalo Museum of Science is a digital library providing a high-quality collection of stunning, un-retouched images of Wilson A. Bentley’s original glass slide photographs of snow crystals, and includes dynamic resources to further an appreciation and understanding of Bentley and his work. In the spirit of Wilson Alwyn Bentley and his commitment to innovation and discovery, The Bentley Snow Crystal Collection of the Buffalo Museum of Science serves as an enriching legacy for all to share in the fascinating product of his life’s work carefully observing and recording the intricate, dazzling wonder of snowflakes.

“Quick, the first flakes are coming; the couriers of the coming snow storm. Open the skylight, and directly under it place the carefully prepared blackboard, on whose ebony surface the most minute form of frozen beauty may be welcome from cloud-land. The mysteries of the upper air are about to reveal themselves, if our hands are deft and our eyes quick enough.”—Wilson A. Bentley, "The Story of the Snow Crystals” Harper's Monthly Magazine, 104 (1901:Dec.-1902:May).

Wilson Alwyn Bentley was the first person to successfully photograph snow crystals, which are commonly known as snowflakes. A brilliant, unique individual—largely self-taught—Bentley was born in a Vermont farmhouse which remained his lifelong home. Through remarkable determination and vision he became a gifted and pioneering scientist and photographer, passionately dedicated to capturing and sharing nature’s beauty, mystery, and magnificent design as seen in snow crystals.

© 2004