The History of Museums

Museums are places which seem so ingrained into the fabric of our society, that many would not give their origin or purpose any serious consideration. However, these institutions are much more complex than we can first imagine. They are a living building which is adapting and changing as needs and demands arise. They educate. They entertain. They amaze us.

This resource aims to inspire questions and deeper thought about museums. It will look at four key factors:

  • The History of Museums
  • The Purpose of Museums
  • Museum Education
  • Museums and the Community

Each factor will have numerous case studies with primary documents from the collection to help highlight the more complex nature of these institutions.

Credits

Charlotte Daynton