New York State Museum Offers an Interesting Look at History. Albany, New York
It can be difficult to develop a museum run by the government of a state. It has to chase several goals, all while trying to not offend anyone. A state museum usually has to present the political history of the state, explore its its natural beauty and resources, and also its cultural history. Three tightropes to balance on. The New York State Museum, in Albany, does a very good job on all three strands. New York Cultural Education Center by UpstateNYer via wikimedia The New York State Museum occupies the first and fourth floors of the Cultural Education Center, part of the Empire State Plaza. The museum was founded in 1836, making it the oldest state museum in the country. From 1912 until 1976 it was housed in the State Education Building. When former Gov. Nelson Rockefeller built the government complex in Albany, he included a beautiful new home for the New York State Museum. Hats of some of Albany's Church Ladies The majority of the collection takes up th...