Where learning is child’s play.

Our History

The Children’s Museum of Memphis Founders

• Mars Child (Widdicombe)
• Polly Glotzbach
• Harriet McFadden
• Jack Jones (Museum Incorporation)
• Harry J. Phillips, Sr.

Thanks to the vision and support of The City of Memphis – Richard C. Hackett, Mayor

Timeline

1985

Children’s Museum Planning Group formed

1987

The Children’s Museum of Memphis incorporated as a private, nonprofit, 501(c)3 educational corporation

1988

The museum signs a $1 lease with the City of Memphis for the National Guard Armory complex

1990

After raising $3 million for construction, opened to the public on June 16

2001

Finished a $6 million capital campaign (raised $7.2 million) to expand the museum by 16,000 square feet. Groundbreaking ceremony and construction began on March 23.

2002

Museum expansion completed and opened on August 3

2013

“H2Oh! Splash” park opened

2014

“Outdoor PlaySpace” opened

2015

Museum agrees to restore the 1909 Dentzel Grand Carousel

2017

The Carousel Pavilion at The Children’s Museum of Memphis opens its doors

More about our history

History buffs, read the story of how the Children’s Museum of Memphis got its start in the National Guard Armory. Then, dig deeper into the story and timeline of the Grand Carousel.