Mathellaneous

Mathellaneous is one of several free museums that can be found on the Emporia State University campus. However, one could argue that a similar space can not be found within at least a 1000-mile radius of it. Better than a museum, this space is completely interactive where visitors are allowed to investigate and explore everything on exhibit.

Designed by ESU students and faculty, this humble space only fills two rooms, yet could take several hours to fully digest. Various 3D-printed puzzles are the main attraction with a wide range of difficulties. Elementary age children and older can solve simpler puzzles, while dedicated puzzlers can tackle more difficult challenges, including some puzzles created specifically for Mathellaneous.

The historical section includes textbooks from the 1800s and authentic calculating devices dating back to 1908.  Reproductions draw from the creations of Pascal, Napier, and Ancient Egypt and Babylon.

But wait - there's more!  Mathellaneous also includes pieces of mathematical art and illusions.  Visitors can see examples of anamorphic art and ambiguous 3D images, and also try their hand at creating their own mathematical art.  

After a visit, hopefully you will agree with the motto of Mathellaneous:

Mathematics is... Everywhere, Important, and Fun!