Armenian Library and Museum of America

Armenian Library and Museum of America. It is a major institution in the United States dedicated to preserving and presenting the cultural heritage of the Armenian people. Founded in 1971, it has grown to house one of the most extensive collections of Armenian historical artifacts and archival materials outside of Armenia. The museum serves as a vital cultural and educational center for the Armenian diaspora, particularly within the large community in New England.

History

The institution was established in 1971 by a group of dedicated individuals from the Armenian Revolutionary Federation and the local community, initially operating from a small room in the Hairenik Association building in Watertown, Massachusetts. Its founding was driven by a need to safeguard artifacts and documents following the Armenian genocide and to educate future generations. Key early figures included Mihran Agbabian, an engineer and philanthropist, and Rouben Galichian, a cartographer and collector. The collection grew rapidly through donations from survivors and their descendants, leading to the 1988 acquisition and renovation of a former public library building on Arsenal Street. A major expansion was completed in 2014, significantly increasing gallery and storage space to accommodate its growing holdings and public role.

Collections

The museum's permanent collection encompasses over 25,000 artifacts, representing Armenian material culture from antiquity to the modern era. The archaeological collection includes Urartian bronze belts, medieval khachkars (cross-stones), and liturgical objects from the Armenian Apostolic Church. A significant component is the Armenian genocide collection, featuring photographs, personal effects, and documents related to survivors and relief efforts by organizations like the Near East Foundation. The library and archives hold rare books, including 17th-century prints from the Mekhitarist Congregation in Venice, extensive periodicals such as *Hairenik*, maps by Rouben Galichian, and oral history recordings. The numismatic collection features coins from the Kingdom of Armenia and the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia.

Exhibitions and programs

The museum presents both long-term installations and rotating temporary exhibitions. Core exhibitions chronicle Armenian history, art, and the diaspora experience, often featuring works by artists like Arshile Gorky and Hovsep Pushman. Temporary exhibits have explored themes such as Armenian photography, contemporary art, and the history of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party. Its public programs include lectures by scholars like Richard G. Hovannisian, traditional music and dance performances, film screenings, and annual commemorations of the Armenian genocide. Educational outreach involves workshops for school groups and collaborations with institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and Tufts University.

Building and location

The museum is located at 65 Main Street in the heart of Watertown, Massachusetts, a central hub for the Armenian diaspora in New England. The four-story, 18,000-square-foot building was originally constructed in the early 20th century as a Carnegie library. The 2014 renovation and expansion, led by architects from the firm Ann Beha Architects, preserved the historic facade while creating modern, climate-controlled galleries, a research library, and collection storage facilities. Its location places it within a vibrant Armenian commercial and cultural district, near landmarks like the St. Stephen's Armenian Apostolic Church.

Governance and funding

The institution is governed by a Board of directors and operates as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and a curatorial staff. Funding is derived from membership dues, individual donations from the community, grants from foundations such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, and fundraising events like its annual gala. It maintains partnerships with the Armenian General Benevolent Union and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia for specific projects and cultural exchanges.

Category:Museums in Massachusetts Category:Armenian diaspora in the United States Category:History museums in the United States Category:Libraries in Massachusetts Category:Watertown, Massachusetts