The Brooklyn Children's Museum turns 125 today!
On this day in 1899, BCM opened its doors as the world's first museum created expressly for children and their needs. BCM opened with two exhibit rooms and a library in the Adams House in Bedford Park (now known as Brower Park), according to a press release.
“Brooklyn Children's Museum was the world's first museum designed specifically for children when it opened in 1899, and today, at 125 years old, remains the oldest children's museum in existence,” said Atiba T. Edwards, the museum's president and chief executive officer. “We are proud pioneers in this field and are thrilled to count hundreds of children's museums throughout the country and across the world as our partners. Together, we deliver joyful learning experiences to the wonderful children of our communities.
Since then, the museum has expanded to be a cultural campus featuring an art studio, STEM makerspace, a dozen cultural festivals annually such as Celebrate Holi, Kwanzaa, Día de los Muertos, Lunar New Year; many public programs such as Halloween, and Brooklyn Circus; opening a branch of Brooklyn Public Library within the Museums building and opening a state of the art auditorium.
“Brooklyn Children’s Museum was the first of its kind in the nation, and for 125 years it has been inspiring young people, uplifting families and building community across Brooklyn and beyond,” said New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. “The city is proud of its long-term partnership with and investment in this institution, which is a model for how culture can be at the center of strong, healthy communities while playing a critical role in educating and engaging young people. I had my own early career experience at the museum, and my young son has spent many happy hours under its iconic yellow roof. So many New Yorkers have similar stories to tell about this extraordinary place."
To celebrate this milestone, the museum is throwing a birthday party for the visiting public throughout the weekend of Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22. The museum will be free and filled with many activities.
From 10:00am to 5:00pm on both days, children, families and caregivers will enjoy moving and grooving at dance programs, sliding around BCM’s ArtRink skating rink, meet-and-greets with the artists behind BCM's newest exhibit, In The Works, screenings of birthday episodes from fun throwback Saturday morning cartoons in BCM’s movie theater—plus art-making, photo ops, animal programs, and more.
All programs and experiences will be free as well, with the exception of entry to ArtRink, which is $5 per person. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP online at www.brooklynkids.org/125. Walk-ins on the day of the event are welcome.
