In July of the upcoming year, Boston's Seaport neighborhood will welcome a new museum dedicated to exploring the fascinating world of finance. The Museum of American Finance, known for its extensive collection of historical financial artifacts, aims to make the often-complicated subject of finance more accessible and understandable through interactive exhibits and educational programs. This 5,400-square-foot venue will showcase items ranging from century-old bond certificates to stock shares of the iconic Boston Red Sox baseball team.
David Cowen, president and CEO of the Museum of American Finance, emphasized that finance is the backbone of modern society. Through storytelling, the museum plans to demystify the intricacies of banking, investment, and currency. Artifacts such as an 1897 bond certificate for Boston’s South Station and a blank check signed by President John F. Kennedy highlight the pivotal role finance has played in shaping history.
The decision to locate the museum in the Commonwealth Pier redevelopment aligns with Pembroke's vision of fostering financial literacy globally. Kristan McLaughlin, director of asset management at Pembroke, noted that while finance may not immediately seem like a cultural draw, it is fundamentally about history. The museum's free admission underscores its commitment to accessibility, breaking away from the $8 fee previously charged in New York.
Interactive exhibits crafted with the help of Gallagher & Associates and cutting-edge technology from Fidelity Center for Applied Technology promise to engage visitors in ways never seen before. The museum also plans to extend its educational outreach through personal finance academies and public events focused on topics like cryptocurrencies and sports investing, aiming to partner with local schools and libraries upon arrival in Boston.
Boston's Seaport district continues to evolve with the addition of this museum, which marks a significant milestone since its previous headquarters was devastated by flooding in Manhattan in 2018. As one of the first tenants in the Commonwealth Pier redevelopment, it joins a vibrant mix of restaurants, retail spaces, and offices led by Union Square Hospitality Group and Fidelity Investments.
With its unique blend of history and innovation, the Museum of American Finance promises to offer Bostonians and visitors alike an engaging experience that illuminates the critical role finance plays in everyday life. By presenting complex financial concepts through relatable stories and objects, the museum sets out to inspire curiosity and understanding in all who walk through its doors.