Items displayed on the top shelf
Items on this shelf include photographs and documents related to the early history of the Toledo Museum of Art. A catalog of the inaugural exhibition, a key to the City of Toledo, a deed for the property purchased by Libbey, a will and passport belong to the Libbeys are also on display.
The Madison Ave. site
1903
The photograph (from the Owens-Illinois collection, MSS-200) presents the first building that, from 1903 to 1912, was home to the Toledo Museum of Art founded in 1901. Edward D. Libbey purchased the building and leased it to the museum for a nominal charge. This building was at 1216 Madison Avenue in downtown Toledo (source: Toledo Museum of Art Website).
Museum site on Monroe
1912 to present
Planning for the new site for the museum on its current location on Monroe Street have begun by 1907. The Libbeys donates a 6-acre land and a $50,000 matching fund (for a public support in an equal amount). (source: Toledo Museum of Art Website).
Exhibition catalog (PDF)
1912
Catalogue of the Inaugural Exhibition, Toledo Museum of Art, 1912. Canaday Center Local History Vertical Files.
This catalog describes the artwork on display for the museum’s first exhibit.
Testimonial Book
January 17, 1912
Testimonial book, January 17, 1912. On loan from the collections of the Toledo Museum of Art.
This book contains testimonials to Edward Drummond Libbey by citizens of Toledo in appreciation for his gift of the Toledo Museum of Art.
Warranty Deed (PDF)
1902
Deed, 13th and Madison art museum property, 1902. Owens-Illinois Company Records, MSS-200.
Edward Drummond Libbey purchased this house downtown as the first home for the art museum. The building was renovated to include gallery space, and also served as the home for the museum’s first director, George Washington Stevens.
Museum lot survey
May 28, 1886
The survey of the Madison Avenue site in 1886 was completed by Civil Engineer and Surveyor J. S. Stratton. The site was located in the historic Vistula District.
Edward Libbey's will
1925
Last Will and Testament of Edward Drummond Libbey, 1925. Owens-Illinois Company Records, MSS-200.
Libbey’s will left much of his estate as an endowment for the museum. Other beneficiaries included his wife, friends, and charitable organizations.
Passport: F. S. Libbey
1927-1928
Passport, Florence Scott Libbey, 1927-1928. Owens-Illinois Company Records. MSS-200.
E.D. Libbey and his wife toured the world seeking art for the museum. This passport provides evidence that Florence continued her travels to acquire items for the museum even after her husband’s death.