122: Secrets of the Met Museum, Part 01: The Humble First Home
You might walk the grand halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art today, surrounded by the splendor of centuries-old artifacts and the whispers of history echoing off marble walls. But once upon a time, the Met had a far more modest abode. This episode of Hometown History peels back the layers of time to reveal the Met's first home, a place worlds apart from its current palatial residence on Fifth Avenue. It's a reminder that even the mightiest institutions have humble beginnings, unfolding the story of ambition, vision, and the love of art that has long been nestled in the heart of New York City.
In 1872, the Metropolitan Museum opened its doors for the first time, not amidst the luxury of its current location, but within the red walls of a modest building on 681 Fifth Avenue. Our journey today takes us back to those early days when the fledgling museum displayed its initial collection, which included Roman sarcophagi, a handful of European paintings, and Egyptian artifacts. Through the dedicated efforts of artists, philanthropists, and visionaries, the Met's collection grew, as did its influence, eventually necessitating the move to its famous home on Fifth Avenue, where it continues to inspire and educate. Join us as we explore the origins of this iconic institution and the little-known tales of its early struggle and eventual triumph.