Cahoon Museum of American Art facts for kids
The Cahoon Museum of American Art is a special place in Cotuit, Massachusetts. It shows amazing American art from the 1800s until today. You can see fine art, folk art, and many different styles. The museum also has fun activities like changing art shows, tours, talks by artists, workshops, and family events.
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History of the Museum Building
The building where the museum is located has a long history. It was built between 1775 and 1782 by Zenas Crocker. Over the years, this building has been many things. It was a family home, a busy tavern, and even an art studio and gallery. It is one of six old Crocker homes in Cotuit, Massachusetts.
How the Museum Started
In 1945, two famous artists, Ralph Cahoon and Martha A Farham Cahoon, bought the house. They used the bottom floor as their art studio and gallery. The Cahoons became very popular in the 1950s. They often said that Joan Whitney Payson helped them become famous. She was a wealthy American art collector and businesswoman.
In 1982, an art collector from Cotuit named Rosemary Rapp bought the property. She wanted to create a museum there. The Cahoon Museum officially opened its doors in 1986.
Museum Renovations and Reopening
The museum building was made much bigger and better in 2014 and 2015. This big project helped the museum offer more to visitors. The Cahoon Museum reopened in May 2016, ready to welcome more people.
Art Collection and Exhibitions
The Cahoon Museum has a growing collection of American art. They get new artworks through gifts and by buying them. The collection includes special pieces by Cape Cod folk artists Ralph Cahoon and Martha Cahoon.
Featured Artists in the Collection
The museum also has paintings from the 1800s by artists like Ralph Albert Blakelock, William Bradford, and William Matthew Prior. From the 1900s, you can see art by Margaret Jordan Patterson and Daisy Marguerite Hughes. The museum also shows many works by modern artists.
Changing Art Shows
Each year, the museum hosts many different art shows. These shows feature both historical art and works by artists living today. This means there is always something new and exciting to see at the Cahoon Museum.
