Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
December 11, 1933: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art opened in Kansas City
2023 Marked the 90th anniversary of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art which helped put the Kansas City arts scene on the international map when it opened. It is recognized for the iconic badminton shuttlecocks on the lawn and loved by people around the world. The name of the museum comes from a pair of wealthy families who helped make sure Kansas Citians had access to the arts.
William Rockhill Nelson
The land where the museum sits is the former home of William Rockhill Nelson called Oak Hall. Nelson was the former publisher of the Kansas City Star who dictated in his will that proceeds from his estate would go to purchase art for public enjoyment.
Mary McAfee Atkins:
Mary McAfee Atkins was a schoolteacher who was married to a wealthy real estate investor, and she also left her estate to be used for similar purposes.
Nelson-Atkins today:
Today, the Nelson-Atkins Museum holds nearly 40,000 works of art from all over the world, representing all genres of art. The museum is thriving today thanks to the continued support of the Kansas City community. It has grown over the years to include these specialties of art:
- African American
- Ancient Architecture
- Design & Decorative Arts
- Chinese Contemporary
- Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park
- European
- Japanese
- Modern
- Native American
- Photography
- South & Southeast Asian
4525 Oak Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
816-751-1278
