For over a century, palaeontologists from around the world have come to southwestern Saskatchewan to excavate fossils. The RSM began excavating fossils here in the 1950s. In 1994, the RSM began the excavation of what was then only the thirteenth-known partial skeleton of the carnivorous dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex, now affectionately called "Scotty". This project led to the establishment of a fossil research station in Eastend in 1995. The RSM's activities there focus on palaeontological field research and collecting, the separation of fossils from their rock matrix in the laboratory, and on-going research to better understand Saskatchewan's fossil history.

Photo Credit: Eastend Community Tourism Association

The Centre is situated on the north slope of the Frenchman River valley, overlooking the town. When you visit the Centre, you will discover the diversity of the fossils found in the region and watch palaeontologists prepare fossils of the ancient animals, including Scotty, that lived here millions of years ago.

The RSM is responsible for conducting palaeontological research together with the collection, preparation and preservation of the fossils. The T.rex Discovery Centre's staff presents the interpretive material, including exhibits, and the educational and public programs. If you want to see more, the Centre organizes tours to active palaeontological localities and natural sites around Eastend. You can even try your hand at being a palaeontologist for a day.