Because the Nelson-Atkins has so much to offer in terms of libraries, we decided to extend National Library Week for a few days. The Museum Archives is not as known to the public as it should be. This is not just merely a collection of randomly stored items, no. The Archives is an amazing resource of information and collected items from past Nelson-Atkins staff or other Museum associates. Let’s take a quick look as some of the unique items one might find perusing the Archives.
I was intrigued by many of the items mentioned in the collection. The first one being Mary Atkins’ death mask from 1911. I would never have guessed that the Museum had this. The Archives have handwritten letters from Eugene Delacroix to French composer, Fromental Halevy and a handwritten letter from Frederic Remington to J.J. Benson discussing a particular drawing in 1901. There is also a typewritten draft of the last chapter of Thomas Hart Benton’s book, Artist in America. These are truly remarkable items to be able to view in person.
The Museum Archives is also a great source of information about the Museum in general. They receive – and answer – many questions regarding just about anything to do with the Museum. Did you know that the fountain in Rozzelle Court was originally one of the baths in Rome belonging to Emperor Hadrian in the Fist Century A.D.? Did you know Andrew T. Schwartz painted the murals in the Atkins Stairway? I didn’t know the answer to either of those questions, but I do now.
The Museum Archives really is a fascinating place to spend a couple of hours or an afternoon. The Archives really serves a much greater purpose than just storage for neat stuff though. The Archives documents the illustrious history and many activities of the Nelson-Atkins and its related organizations. Not only does it keep track of all the official Museum business, the Archives collects personal papers and manuscript material of all previous Museum staff.
The Archives are available by appointment only, but the librarians are more than happy to locate whatever specific item you might be in search of. If you would like to view or read any of the aforementioned items or have something specific in mind you would like to see, simply call 816.751.1354 to schedule your appointment today. The Archives is yet another great Museum library resource for the community.