Museum of the City of New York (MCNY)

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Museum of the City of New York offers a unique journey through the history and culture of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Founded in 1923 by historian Henry Collins Brown, the museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of New York and its people.

History

The museum’s home is a striking Colonial Revival–style building designed by architect Joseph H. Freedlander. Its facade is adorned with statues of Alexander Hamilton and DeWitt Clinton, sculpted by Adolph Alexander Weinman. Originally, the museum was intended for another location, but after the stock market crash of 1929, the current building became its permanent home.

Today, the museum is part of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group, which ensures public support for its work.

Collection

The museum’s collection includes more than 1.5 million objects, primarily from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Among its treasures are photographs, paintings, drawings, and prints—including more than 3,000 works by Currier & Ives, capturing scenes of New York life. The theater collection is another highlight, reflecting the golden age of Broadway.

The museum also boasts an extraordinary photography archive, featuring the work of renowned photographers such as Percy Byron, Jacob Riis, and Berenice Abbott. Visitors can also explore images of Depression-era New York, along with early photographs by Stanley Kubrick, who began his career behind the camera.

Did You Know?

Can’t make it to the museum in person? The museum’s website offers access to around 50,000 digitized photographs. These images can be browsed by neighborhood or theme, making it easy to explore the city’s past from anywhere in the world.