Tenement Museum Co-founder, Curator, Artist
Anita Jacobson has a long-ranging background in the fields of art and historic preservation. She received a BA from New York University majoring in Art History. However, it was not until years later that she became interested in the field of Social History. Her career began as a freelance graphic designer for several publishing companies. Working for Facts on File she researched all the photographs for “The Encyclopedia of Historic Places” and a two volume book entitled “Twentieth Century Theater.” As the Museum’s first curator, she discovered and catalogued hundreds of artifacts. She participated in the creation of many of the Museum’s programs, created its temporary exhibits and managed the archives and library. After her attendance at the Cooperstown Graduate Program in Museum Studies she returned to begin the research and the furnishing of the first two tenement apartment recreations. Having been on staff for ten years, she continued her involvement as a board member and consultant, researching photographs for “Six Heritage Tours of the Lower Set Side (New York Press,1997) a walking tour guidebook published in conjunction with the Tenement Museum.
Since retiring from the Museum, she has enjoyed a career as a collage artist, focusing on environmental themes and has exhibited in the Hudson Valley and NYC.
Annual Gala | May 2, 2023
With two ways to join — virtually or in-person — be a part of this year’s gala! Broadcast live from City Winery, hear from co-founder Anita Jacobson and Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Lonnie G. Bunch III, during this special celebration marking our 35th anniversary and the re-opening of 97 Orchard Street.
