Susan B. Anthony Museum Expands Legacy in Rochester

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The National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House in Rochester, New York is working to expand how it preserves and shares the legacy of the women's suffrage leader. The museum is planning a $25 million visitors center to create more immersive and theatrical exhibits about Anthony's life and work, as well as reflect on the ongoing fight for equity and justice. The museum has also become a designated early voting site, drawing thousands of voters to the same place where Anthony was arrested for illegally voting over 150 years ago.

Why it matters

The Susan B. Anthony Museum and House is dedicated to honoring the life and values of the pioneering women's rights activist. As the country celebrates its 250th anniversary, the museum's expansion efforts aim to engage more people, especially younger generations, with Anthony's story and the continued pursuit of the ideals of "Humanity, liberty, justice, and equality" that she championed.

The details

The museum's newly named president and CEO, Allison Hinman, says the planned 15,000 square foot visitors center will feature immersive and theatrical elements to help people better understand the challenges Anthony faced in her time, as well as reflect on the ongoing work for change. More than half of the $25 million needed for the project has already been raised through community donations.

• The National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House has operated as a museum in Anthony's former Rochester home for over 80 years.
• In 2024, the museum became a designated early voting site, drawing thousands of voters to the same place where Anthony was arrested for illegally voting over 150 years earlier.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The museum is relying on community donations to help fund its $25 million expansion project. More information on how to contribute can be found on the museum's website.