A mechanism of American museum-building philanthropy, 1925-1970

Abstract

This thesis investigates why twentieth-century philanthropists, such as Henry Ford, John and Abby Rockefeller, Henry du Pont, and Henry and Helen Flynt, developed American museums between 1925 and 1970. These individuals shared similar beliefs and ideological perspectives of American history, which shaped their museum-building efforts. Additionally, philanthropists had financial resources, social networks, and access to agents. The combination of these elements assisted in the establishment of their institutions. Over two generations, these museum builders established an American museum ideal through the implementation of their philanthropy. Philanthropists’ extensive financial resources, combined with philanthropic and museum-oriented ideas of the time, provided the impetus for the creation of new museums and collections. Furthermore, this work investigates Henry Ford as a case study of the philanthropic system used to establish these institutions. Ford’s agents mediated an exchange of artifacts and resources between Ford and average people, who were willing to give buildings, furnishings, and industrial machinery to the museum. This multi-directional system of philanthropy exemplifies the relationship between Ford as the philanthropist, his agents, and potential donors, to create his museums. Other philanthropists and institutions are referenced to further illustrate the museum building process and the role of philanthropy established at this time.