Day: May 13, 2025

The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford, Connecticut, established in 1842 and opened in 1844, is the oldest continuously operating public art museum in the United States, founded by Daniel Wadsworth and enriched over time by major benefactors like Elizabeth Colt and the Morgan family. The museum has played a pioneering role in American art history, hosting landmark exhibitions and expanding its collection under visionary directors such as Chick Austin, who introduced modern and contemporary art, and continues to innovate with programs like the Matrix series and partnerships like the Amistad Center for Art & Culture. Today, the Wadsworth maintains its community focus through free admission for Hartford residents, diverse exhibitions, and a welcoming environment, earning recognition as one of the nation's top art museums.