Smithsonian to Open Human Evolution Hall

The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History plans to open a hall next year dedicated to the story of human evolution.

The nearly $21 million Hall of Human Origins announced Wednesday will trace 6 million years of history. It's scheduled to open in March 2010, marking the museum's 100th anniversary.

It is being funded by David H. Koch, a chemical engineer and executive vice president of energy company Koch Industries Inc. of Wichita, Kan. The hall will be named in his honor.

Koch was the Libertarian Party's vice presidential candidate and has been a donor to conservative causes as well as educational, medical and cultural groups.

The exhibit will follow milestones in human history, including the impact of climate change and extinction of ancient species.