History of the Museum of the City of New York Explored in ‘Treasures of New York,’ Premiering Tonight

Photo by Filip Wolak courtesy MCNY

How do you boil down the whole history of New York? The question might sound daunting to some, but it’s the “ambitious mission” of the Museum of the City of New York to do exactly that.

Situated on Fifth Avenue and 103rd Street, MCNY has celebrated New York City’s past, present and future since its founding in 1923. It’s now being spotlighted in Treasures of New York, a documentary series that explores our city’s premier cultural establishments, from the Park Avenue Armory to Lincoln Center; the episode will premiere tonight, May 4th at 8pm on WLIW21 (and on Sunday, May 7 at 7pm on THIRTEEN). Until then, take a look at this preview trailer, providing you with a behind-the-scenes look at the inner-workings of the MCNY.

A portion of the episode will cover the MCNY’s newest exhibition, New York at Its Core. As New Yorkers (and city lovers in general), we’ve been following its installation for some time now. The expansive, landmark exhibition delves into 400 years of New York City history and occupies the entire first floor of the museum.

From its vast collection of artifacts to its Future City Lab, New York at Its Core inspires us all to reconnect with the city by telling the story of its rise from a Dutch Village to the thriving metropolis it is today. Treasures of New York: The Museum of the City of New York will give you an insider look at what it took to put together this sweeping exhibition, the first of its kind in the entire city.

Photo by Filip Wolak courtesy MCNY

In preparation for the premiere, make sure to check out this history quiz: “Are You a New York City Know-It-All?,” based on seven items from the museum’s collection. Then head there yourself to discover them in person. For more information, click here.

Next, check out 10 Must See Artifacts at New York At Its Core at the Museum of the City of New York and see our past coverage of New York At Its Core.