The Heckscher Museum of Art

The Heckscher Museum of Art, nestled within the picturesque Heckscher Park in Huntington, New York, has been a cornerstone of the community’s cultural life for more than a century. Founded in 1920 by Anna and August Heckscher, the museum was established through their generous donation of both the museum building and an initial collection of 185 artworks to the Heckscher Trust. Their vision was to create a vibrant center where art, culture, and community could flourish side by side.

From its earliest days, the Heckscher Museum has embraced the belief that art should be accessible to all. Its founding collection reflects this commitment, featuring an impressive range of works from European Old Masters, including Lucas Cranach, François Girardon, and Henry Raeburn, to notable American painters such as Edward and Thomas Moran, Ralph Albert Blakelock, and George Inness. These pieces form the foundation of a collection that continues to grow and evolve, offering visitors a rich journey through art history.

In 1954, ownership of the museum was transferred to the Town of Huntington, which entrusted its care to the independent Board of Trustees after the institution received its Absolute Charter from the New York State Board of Regents in 1957. Throughout the decades, the museum has remained true to the Heckschers’ original vision, championing arts education, community engagement, and the transformative power of creativity.

Today, the Heckscher Museum hosts dynamic exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives that connect people of all ages with art. Whether showcasing historical masterpieces or contemporary works, the museum continues to serve as a welcoming space where the community can gather, learn, and be inspired—ensuring that the Heckschers’ gift remains a living legacy for generations to come.