About the Mason Wildlife Exhibit
The Mason Wildlife Exhibit, located in the S.J. and Jessie E. Quinney Natural Resources Library at Utah State University, is a tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of Jerald Elliott Mason (“Jerry”) and his wife, Miriam Elizabeth Peterson Mason. This exhibit features nearly 60 species of North American fish, mammals, and birds—each a symbol of the continent’s diverse ecosystems and the values of conservation, stewardship, and education.
A Lifelong Passion for the Outdoors
Jerry Mason was born in Circleville, Ohio in 1926, and Miriam in Fairview, Utah in 1928. They met in Southern California and married in 1955, eventually settling in Utah where Jerry accepted a position with Thiokol Corporation in 1960. Although Jerry’s professional career was in aeronautical engineering, his heart always belonged to the wilderness.
An avid hunter, angler, and outdoorsman, Jerry explored landscapes from the Wasatch Mountains to Alaska and the Northwest Territories. Early adventures with his Utah in-laws sparked a lifelong devotion to hunting, fishing, and the preservation of wild lands. His love for the outdoors wasn’t solitary—he frequently organized trips with family, friends, scout troops, and community members, believing deeply in sharing nature’s beauty with others.
From Private Collection to Public Exhibit
Over decades, Jerry amassed a significant and ethically sourced wildlife collection representing species from across North America. Previously displayed in the Mason home in Brigham City, the collection became a hub for local schools and youth groups. Jerry and Miriam realized its potential to educate the broader public and began discussions with USU to make the collection accessible to all.
Thanks to the efforts of USU faculty, particularly Dr. Terry Messmer, and with support from the Peterson Mason Foundation—established by Jerry and Miriam—the collection found a permanent home in the Quinney Library in 2017. The exhibit not only showcases wildlife but also tells a powerful story about responsible conservation and the role of hunting in wildlife management.
One of the most captivating displays in the Mason Wildlife Exhibit is the cougar, also known as the mountain lion or puma—a powerful, elusive predator that roams Utah's rugged landscapes. This solitary animal plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by regulating prey populations and preserving natural balance. The cougar on display was part of Jerry Mason’s personal collection and reflects his deep respect for North America’s apex predators. The exhibit invites visitors to explore the cougar’s behavior, habitat, and its challenges in a modern world shaped by habitat loss and increasing human-wildlife encounters. It stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between conservation and coexistence, and the importance of understanding these iconic animals beyond the myths that often surround them.
A Legacy of Conservation and Service
Jerry’s commitment to conservation extended beyond his personal interests. He served on the Utah Wildlife Federation Board, the Division of Wildlife Resources’ Big Game Board, and various Box Elder County planning committees. He helped revitalize the Bear River Bird Refuge, and spent over 20 years maintaining trails in the High Uintas, always involving family and friends in the effort.
The Mason Wildlife Exhibit continues Jerry’s legacy by inspiring curiosity, fostering understanding of native wildlife, and promoting the principles of sustainable resource management.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a group visit, please contact: quinney.library@usu.edu (435) 797-2464