Australia- 11) Eden Killer Whale Museum

The Eden Killer Whale Museum is one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in Eden. Established in 1931, the museum offers a deep dive into the rich maritime history of the region, particularly focusing on the unique relationship between local whalers and killer whales (orcas).

The museum provides extensive exhibits on the whaling industry that flourished in Eden during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It showcases the tools, techniques, and personal stories of the whalers who operated in the area.

Old Tom: One of the museum's most famous exhibits is the skeleton of Old Tom, an orca who was well-known for his collaboration with the local whalers. Old Tom would help herd baleen whales towards the whalers in exchange for the whale’s tongue and lips as a reward. This unique relationship is a focal point of the museum's narrative.

Maritime Artifacts: The museum houses a vast collection of maritime artifacts, including whaleboats, harpoons, scrimshaw (carvings on whale bone or ivory), and various nautical instruments.

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Old Tom:

Tom, often referred to as "Old Tom," is a legendary figure in the history of Eden, New South Wales. His story is unique and captivating, highlighting an extraordinary partnership between humans and killer whales in the pursuit of whaling. 

He was active in the waters of Twofold Bay during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with his most prominent activities documented between the 1880s and 1930.

Old Tom was the leader of a pod of killer whales that included other notable orcas such as Stranger, Humpy, and Big Jack.

The pod exhibited remarkable behavior by collaborating with the local whalers. This unique relationship was termed "cooperative whaling." The killer whales would herd baleen whales into the bay, alert the whalers by breaching and slapping their tails on the water, and even assist in the hunt by grabbing the whales’ lips and tongues.  In return, the whalers would reward the orcas by leaving the carcasses for the killer whales to consume after taking the valuable parts they needed.

Old Tom was easily recognizable due to his distinctive dorsal fin and missing teeth, believed to be lost while gripping ropes and struggling with large whales.

The cooperative behavior of Old Tom and his pod turned into a local spectacle, attracting attention and admiration from both locals and visitors.

Old Tom died in 1930, and his body was found floating in the bay. His death marked the end of an era for Eden's whaling history. The whalers recovered his skeleton, which is now on display at the Eden Killer Whale Museum. This exhibit provides an educational and poignant reminder of the unusual and symbiotic relationship between Old Tom and the whalers.

The story of Old Tom has become a significant part of Eden’s cultural heritage, celebrated through storytelling, educational programs, and museum exhibits.

The Eden Killer Whale Museum offers detailed accounts of Old Tom's life and the whaling practices of the time, helping visitors understand the historical context and the incredible natural behaviors exhibited by these marine mammals. Visitors to the Eden Killer Whale Museum can view Old Tom's skeleton, which serves as a central piece of the museum's collection. The display includes information about his life, the cooperative whaling practices, and the biology of killer whales.

Old Tom's story is not just a fascinating chapter in the history of whaling; it also offers insights into the complex relationships between humans and animals, the intelligence of orcas, and the rich maritime heritage of Eden. Visiting the Eden Killer Whale Museum to learn about Old Tom is a must for anyone interested in marine biology, history, and unique animal behaviors.