The Met Museum's Dark History of Art Theft

It's the 19th century. New York City is blossoming. And amidst this growth, there's a buzz around a new institution that's popping up that will change the cultural landscape forever. Today, this institution sits on Fifth Avenue, hosting events like the Met Gala. Nestled on the edge of New York City's Central Park, this institution has become synonymous with art, culture, and history.

TIMELINE
1872: Since its inauguration in 1872, the Met's treasures had multiplied exponentially, and the Douglas Mansion, though regal in its own right, had grown weary and cramped under the weight of history.
1874: With the blueprint in hand, and the land awaiting its transformation, 1874 marked the commencement of a construction endeavor that would span six long years.
1880: On the crisp morning of March 30th, 1880, a monumental dream was realized.

WHY THIS MATTERS
The story of New York City is a reminder that the events that shaped America didn't always happen in the biggest cities. What unfolded here left marks on the community that are still visible today. The full story is more complicated, and more human, than the version most people know.

Episode 123 | Hometown History | Hosted by Shane Waters

Hometown History explores forgotten stories from small-town America. The overlooked events, hidden triumphs, and buried tragedies that shaped the country we live in. New episodes every Tuesday. Find every episode at mythsandmalice.com/hometown-history

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