Cahoon Museum of American Art facts for kids
The Cahoon Museum of American Art is a cool art museum in Cotuit, Massachusetts. It shows off all sorts of American art, from old paintings made in the 1800s to modern pieces from today. You can find different styles like fine art and folk art here. The museum also has fun activities like changing art shows, tours, talks by artists, workshops, and special events for families.
History of the Museum
The building where the museum is located has a long and interesting past. It was built a very long time ago, between 1775 and 1782, by a person named Zenas Crocker. Over the years, this historic house has been many things. It was a family home, a busy tavern, and even an art studio and gallery. It's one of six old Crocker homes still standing in Cotuit today.
From Home to Art Studio
In 1945, two artists named Ralph Cahoon and Martha A Farham Cahoon bought the house. They were a married couple who loved art. They used the downstairs part of their home as their art studio and a place to show their paintings. They even had a son named Franz, born in 1935.
The Cahoons became quite famous for their art in the 1950s. A big reason for their success was Joan Whitney Payson. She was a wealthy American art collector who loved their work.
Founding the Museum
Years later, in 1982, an art collector from Cotuit named Rosemary Rapp bought the property. She had a dream to turn the historic house into a museum. Her dream came true, and the Cahoon Museum officially opened its doors in 1986.
The museum got a big upgrade and renovation between 2014 and 2015. It was closed for a while during this time. Then, in May 2016, the museum reopened with new and improved spaces for visitors to enjoy.
What You Can See
The Cahoon Museum of American Art always has something new to explore. They host many different art shows each year. These shows feature both modern artists and historical art pieces.
The museum's collection of art is always growing. They get new artworks through donations and by buying them. You can see paintings by the famous Cape Cod folk artists Ralph Cahoon and Martha Cahoon. The collection also includes works by other important artists from the 19th century, like Ralph Albert Blakelock, William Bradford, James Buttersworth, John J. Enneking, Alvan Fisher, Levi Wells Prentice, and William Matthew Prior. From the 20th century, you might see art by Margaret Patterson, Daisy Hughes, and Scott Prior, along with many talented contemporary artists.
