Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia Welcomes Its One Millionth Visitor

CBS3 TV/KYW News Radio
By Justin Udo

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — The Barnes Foundation welcomes its one millionth visitor to its new home on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

In 2012, the Barnes Foundation, which showcases art from all over the world, opened its Philadelphia campus, and when it came to the city, officials added an array of programs aimed at reaching a diverse group of people.

Will Cary, Director of Visitor Services and Membership at the Barnes Foundation, says they believe that is what helped them bring in 1 million visitors so quickly.

“Our PECO Free First Sundays, which we have on the first Sunday of every month, have been incredibly popular. We put on all sorts of programs, musical performances, lectures, talks and of course our daily variety of collection tours.”

Dr. Oliver Brooks, who is from Philadelphia but lives in California, was the Foundation’s 1 millionth visitor.

He won a year-long contributor membership to the Barnes and some presents from the gift store.

“I had to come see the Barnes because it is one of the greatest museums in the world. I feel lucky, I feel it’s good they have a million plus visitors now. I feel that my timing was right, so I’m just thrilled to be here. This has just heightened the whole experience.”

The Barnes Foundation was founded in 1922 and has campuses in Merion, Ker-Feal, and Philadelphia.