Our story
Why is there an American Museum in Bath?
The American Museum was created by an Anglo-American partnership between Dr. Dallas Pratt and John Judkyn, and opened to the public in 1961 with the ambition to showcase American decorative arts and dispel stereotypes of American culture. Many decades on, their legacy remains alive at the vibrant, unique attraction that the American Museum & Gardens is today, a must-visit place to go in Bath.
Our founders
The American Museum & Gardens is the achievement of an Anglo-American partnership between Dr. Dallas Pratt and John Judkyn
Claverton Manor
Learn about the history of Claverton Manor, the magnificent Georgian manor house with links to Ralph Allen, that is now the home of the American Museum
Mission and values
Our mission is to stimulate and inspire people of all ages to further their understanding of the richness and complexity of American culture
Governance today
As an independent charity, the American Museum & Gardens is governed by a Board of Trustees, an Executive Chair and and our Leadership Team
Equity, diversity and inclusion
We are passionate about making sure that everyone feels welcome – find out about the recent and current initiatives supporting our diversity and inclusion goals
Environmental sustainability
We are committed to the stewardship of the land that we own and are investing in our Somerset estate to ensure it is protected for future generations
Community partners
We enjoy working with regional partners in Bath and the South West, as well as national and global organisations, to fulfil our vision to inspire and entertain
Support our work
The American Museum & Gardens is an independent charity – every penny you donate goes towards protecting this special place