Collections Overview
About the Collections
Established in 1866 as one of the first museums of anthropology, the Peabody Museum currently cares for a large and historic collection of anthropological materials from across the globe, including more than 1.2 million individual cultural items, 500,000 photographic images, and associated archival records.
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These items originate from and can teach us about peoples and cultures from across the globe, both past and present. The broad and diverse collections have come from a variety of sources since the Museum opened in 1866: archaeological excavations and scientific expeditions, individual souvenirs and collections acquired while traveling, items exchanged and traded between various individuals and groups, historic pieces passed down through families, purchased from individuals and companies, as well as from other museums. The Peabody continues to research the various histories of each piece in the vast collection and strives to transparently contextualize and care for them through its commitment to ethical stewardship and sustainable practices. In this process, the Museum welcomes the input and research of community stakeholders and the wider public.
Looking for Specific Collections?
Search the online database to find a specific collection item and learn more about where it came from and when and other details.
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Engage with Collections
Interested in learning more about a specific collection or item at the Peabody? Or working with the collections in person? The museum has staff devoted to public engagement with the collections and we’d love to hear from you!
