The New York State Museum at the New York State Education Building

The New York State Museum occupied the New York State Education Building from 1912 to 1976. For almost seventy years, visitors could explore the rows of curiosities in collection cases and educational exhibitions that occupied the building's 4th and 5th floors. Popular exhibits included the Cohoes and Temple Hill Mastodons, the "Old Indian Life Groups", and a giant relief map of New York State. In 1976, the State Museum moved into its current home at the Cultural Education Center.

old photograph of NYS Education Building
Cohoes and Temple Mastodons at the NYSED Building
"Old Indian Life Group": Oneida Industry Group
New York State Relied Map in the State Education Building c. 1932
Display cases in the 1950s at the New York State Education Building
1950s Brachiopod Display in the New York State Education Building
1950s Marsupial Display in the New York State Education Building
"Old Indian Life Group": Mohawk Warrior Group

 

Explore the State Education Building in 360 Degrees!

Move your phone or mouse to explore and zoom in on each of the spaces below in 360 degrees while our expert guides describe their history, design, and significance.

The Rotunda at the NYSED Building

Explore the NYS Education Building where Museum Educator, Carl Morrone, will highlight the building's history and unique architectural elements. Designed by renowned architect and New York City native Henry Hornbostel, the Education Building was the first major building constructed in the United States solely as a headquarters for the administration of education.

Regents Room of the NYSED Building

Located inside the NYS Education Building, this elaborately decorated room is the meeting place for the Board of Regents. Join Museum Educator Ben Russell who will highlight the Regents history and the room’s design.

The Rotunda Murals of the NYSED Building

Learn more about the thirty-six paintings, created by Albany artist Will Hicok Low, that complement the State Education Building Rotunda’s architectural nobility and its aura of intellectual enlightenment. Museum Educator, Carly Benedict leads this tour of the beauty and meaning of these groundbreaking murals. 

The Replica Liberty Bell

Gifted by President Harry Truman in 1950, the New York State’s “Liberty Bell” is an exact replica of the original Liberty Bell located in Philadelphia. Museum Educator, Anna Doren, will highlight the history behind the creation of this replica and how it came to be a featured element at the New York State Education Building.  

Website Resources:

Learn more about specific features of the NYSED Building through these websites.

Murals in the Rotunda in the State Education Building

The Rotunda Paintings of the NYSED Building

Learn more about the thirty-six paintings, created by Albany artist Will Hicok Low, that complement the State Education Building Rotunda’s architectural nobility and its aura of intellectual enlightenment.