The Peabody Essex Museum - Salem - Museum In The World

The Peabody Essex Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs. The museum is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including a large collection of maritime art, Asian art, and American art.

The Peabody Essex Museum was founded in 1799, making it one of the oldest museums in the United States. The museum has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of American art and culture.

The museum's collection includes over 2 million works of art and artifacts, making it one of the largest collections in the United States. The museum is particularly known for its collection of maritime art, which includes ship models, navigational instruments, and paintings of ships and seascapes.

The Peabody Essex Museum also has a strong collection of Asian art, with a particular focus on Chinese and Japanese art. The museum's collection of American art includes paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from the 17th century to the present day.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Peabody Essex Museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from contemporary art to historic artifacts.

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include guided tours, lectures, and hands-on activities that allow visitors to explore the museum's collection in depth.

History:

The Peabody Essex Museum was founded in 1799 as the East India Marine Society. The society was created by a group of Salem, Massachusetts merchants who had made their fortunes in the East India trade.

The society's mission was to collect and study natural history specimens from around the world, particularly from the regions that were part of the East India trade. Over time, the society's collection expanded to include art and artifacts from around the world.

In 1825, the East India Marine Society opened its first museum in Salem. The museum was a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and it quickly became an important part of the cultural landscape of Salem.

In 1867, the society merged with the Essex Historical Society, which had a similar mission of collecting and preserving artifacts related to the history of Essex County, Massachusetts. The new organization was called the Essex Institute.

The museum continued to grow and expand over the years, and in 1992, it was renamed the Peabody Essex Museum in honor of two of its most important benefactors, George Peabody and John Eastman Peabody.

Address:

Peabody Essex Museum
161 Essex St
Salem, MA 01970
United States

FAQ:

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Q: What are the museum's hours?
A: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

Q: How much does it cost to visit the museum?
A: Admission to the museum is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $12 for students. Children under 16 are admitted for free.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

Q: Is photography allowed in the museum?
A: Photography is allowed for personal use only. Flash photography and tripods are not permitted.

Q: Are there any restrictions on what can be brought into the museum?
A: Food and drink are not allowed in the galleries. Bags larger than 11"x14"x6" are not permitted and must be checked at the coatroom.

Q: Are there any special events or programs at the museum?
A: The museum hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and family-friendly activities. Check the museum's website for a full schedule of upcoming events.

Whether you are an art enthusiast or just looking to learn more about the history of Salem and the North Shore, the Peabody Essex Museum is a must-visit destination. With its extensive collection of art and artifacts, as well as its dynamic exhibitions and educational programs, the museum offers something for everyone.