Massillon Museum

The Massillon Museum, affectionately known as "MassMu," stands as a cultural centerpiece in downtown Massillon, offering visitors an engaging exploration of local history, art, and culture. Following a major expansion and renovation completed in 2019, this community-centered museum now features multiple exhibition spaces across three floors, presenting both permanent collections and changing exhibits that reflect the rich heritage of Massillon and the surrounding region.

Why It's Special

What sets the Massillon Museum apart is its remarkable integration into the community fabric. Unlike many museums that feel separate from everyday life, MassMu functions as a true community hub where history, art, education, and social gathering intersect. Its free admission policy ensures accessibility for all, while its diverse programming—from concerts and lectures to hands-on workshops and family activities—makes it a dynamic space where visitors of all ages and backgrounds can connect with culture in meaningful ways.

Museum Highlights

Main Gallery

The museum's primary exhibition space features changing exhibits that rotate throughout the year:

• Major art exhibitions showcasing regional and national artists
• Historical exhibitions drawn from the museum's extensive collections
• Collaborative shows with other cultural institutions
• Annual NEA Big Read community-wide reading program exhibitions

Permanent Collection Galleries

The Immel Circus

• A breathtaking 100-square-foot miniature circus handcrafted by Robert Immel
• Over 2,600 meticulously detailed pieces carved by hand
• Authentic representation of a 1930s American circus
• Interactive elements explaining circus history and traditions

The Photography Gallery

• Rotating exhibitions drawn from the museum's extensive photography collection
• Works by regional photographers and nationally significant images
• Historic photographs documenting Massillon's development
• Themed exhibitions exploring various photographic techniques and subjects

Paul Brown Museum

Dedicated to Massillon's football legacy and the revolutionary coach who made it famous:

• Memorabilia from Paul Brown's groundbreaking coaching career
• Exhibits on the storied Massillon Tigers high school football tradition
• Interactive displays explaining Brown's innovations that transformed football
• Rotating exhibits featuring different aspects of Massillon's football culture
• Original artifacts from Brown's time with the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals

Studio M

A dedicated space featuring:

• Solo exhibitions by emerging and established Ohio artists
• Diverse media including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation
• Artist talks and demonstration opportunities
• Platform for experimental and contemporary artistic expression

Visitor Experience

Community Spaces

The museum was designed to serve as a community gathering place:

• Anderson's in the City café providing refreshments in a museum setting
• Welcoming lobby with community information and seating areas
• Event spaces hosting lectures, concerts, and community programs
• Museum shop featuring locally made items and unique gifts

Educational Offerings

• "Do the Mu!" free monthly family activities
• Brown Bag Lunch lecture series
• Hands-on art classes and workshops for all ages
• School tour programs aligned with curriculum standards
• Educator resources and classroom materials

Research Opportunities

The museum maintains extensive archives available by appointment:

• Massillon history photographs and documents
• Local business and industry records
• Genealogical resources for family research
• Local newspaper archives
• Oral history collections

Special Events

The museum hosts numerous events throughout the year:

• Island Party: Annual summer fundraiser with live music and food
• Rhythms Concert Series: Live music performances in the museum's event space
• Art 360°: Immersive art experience with demonstrations and activities
• History Happy Hours: Casual learning events combining history and socialization
• Stark County Artists Exhibition: Annual juried show highlighting local talent
• Holiday events: Special programming during Christmas and other seasonal celebrations

Plan Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

• Saturday afternoons often feature special programming and demonstrations
• The first Tuesday of each month offers extended evening hours until 7pm
• New exhibitions typically open with special receptions (check calendar)
• "Do the Mu!" family activities occur on the first Saturday of each month

Tips for Visitors

• Plan for about 1-2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly
• Check the website calendar for special events and exhibitions
• The Paul Brown Museum section is a must-see for football enthusiasts
• Ask staff about the architectural features of the building, which tell their own story
• Combine your visit with exploration of downtown Massillon's historic district

Nearby Attractions

While in the area, consider visiting:

• Historic Lincoln Way shopping district (immediate surroundings)
• Spring Hill Historic Home (10-minute drive)
• Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail (5-minute walk)
• Five Oaks Mansion (5-minute walk)
• Downtown Massillon Historic District (surrounding area)

Getting There

The Massillon Museum is conveniently located in downtown Massillon at the corner of Lincoln Way and First Street. Free street parking is available throughout downtown, with additional public parking lots within a short walking distance. The museum is approximately 15 minutes west of Canton via Lincoln Way (US Route 172) or State Route 21.

Museum History & Evolution

Founded in 1933 as the Baldwin Museum in the former home of city founder James Duncan, the Massillon Museum has evolved dramatically over its nearly century-long history. In 1996, it moved to its current location in a renovated 1931 department store building. The museum underwent a major $4.5 million expansion in 2018-2019, adding 14,000 square feet of space including the Paul Brown Museum, additional galleries, collection storage, and community spaces.

The museum's collection includes over 100,000 artifacts ranging from fine art and photography to historical objects, textiles, and archival materials. As a true community museum, MassMu continues to collect, preserve, and interpret the heritage of Massillon and the surrounding region, while serving as a catalyst for cultural engagement and downtown revitalization.