Changes Throughout The Years

Before settlers and the establishment of the city of Cleveland, this region was more than likely occupied by nature and perhaps Native American tribes who worked with the land for survival. Slowly, the land became populated and flourished in multiple industries, which attracted wealthy patrons and citizens in the greater Cleveland area. Before the museum's construction, the land was owned by Jeptha H. Wade and was used as a park for wealthy industrialists. 3 In 1913, a group of philanthropists worked together to form the museum and begin the project of establishing the idea of a "benefit for all people forever". Admission would remain free of charge so that all citizens, despite the financial situation, could experience the world of art and culture. It was completed and opened in 1916, and has remained to stick to the values that the creators had intended; providing the world an experience with art firsthand. 4