While science is often about looking forward, it’s also important to reflect on the past. And sometimes, an item can serve as a reminder to pause and remember how far we’ve come.

That is what happened when one Medtronic employee found this stone heart on a road trip in Arizona. To him, this wasn’t just a stone heart: it represents all the hearts and lives that have been impacted by his 30 years of work. He gifted the heart to Earl Bakken, with a note expressing his hope that it could remind Earl of all the lives he impacted as well. After his passing geode heart was given to The Bakken Museum. It now serves as a reminder to staff and visitors to not forget the work that has been done as we look to the future.

Maker: Unknown
Date of Creation: circa 2006

Curator’s Note:

This piece is currently on display in the museum’s lobby! You can check it out, along with other pieces donated to The Bakken Museum as part of its Earl Bakken Legacy Collection that our collections team is currently preparing for the public.