The Cummer Gallery of Art, built on the site of the home of Arthur Gerrish Cummer and Ninah May Holden Cummer, was dedicated at a glittering reception held on November 10, 1961, with one thousand guests in attendance, including Florida Governor C. Farris Bryant and Jacksonville Mayor Haydon Burns. Governor Bryant said that he “was moved to walk on tiptoes and whisper when confronting the magnificence of the Museum.” He felt that “it is impossible to add to the luster, romance, or significance…. I know of no elevation of spirit in the history of Florida greater than that displayed here.” In the same vein, Mayor Burns added, “The people of Jacksonville have never recieved a gift comparable in generosity or beauty to the Museum… a testament to the heritage of the past and representing the strength and character of those who were leaders of Jacksonville in the past.” The Museum opened to the public on November 11, 1961, 55 years ago today.
In the spirit of the Cummers’ vision, the Museum continues to be an integral part of the community, providing many ways to connect with the power of the arts and the joy of creation. With a collection that has grown from an original 60 works of art to more than 5,000 current works of art spanning from 2100 B.C. through the 21st century, special exhibitions from around the world, and two acres of historic gardens set along the St. Johns River, the Museum offers a world-class experience for all to enjoy.
Learn more about what the Cummer Museum has to offer, explore the collection, and view upcoming programs and special events at cummermuseum.org.
