On This Day, April 13, 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art was officially incorporated in New York City. Founded by a group of businessmen, artists, and thinkers, the museum was established with the purpose of bringing art and art education to the American people. Its founding members included names like John Taylor Johnston, a railroad executive who served as its first president, and the famous American artist George Palmer Putnam.
The museum opened its doors on February 20, 1872, in a building located at 681 Fifth Avenue. From these modest beginnings, the Met has grown into one of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums. Today, it is located on the eastern edge of Central Park along what is now known as Museum Mile. Its vast collection includes over two million works of art spanning 5,000 years.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s commitment to educating and inspiring the public has made it a cornerstone of New York City’s cultural life. It presents a wide array of works from around the globe, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. The museum’s impact extends beyond its walls through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural celebrations that connect diverse communities with art from every corner of the world.
