Our organization is a rare blend - an association library and fine art museum operating as one legal entity. The Canajoharie Library began in the 1880s, when local leaders established a lending library in the drawing room of the Arkell family home. In 1914, with the support of Bartlett Arkell, first president of the Beech-Nut Packing Company, the Library received itโs New York State charter. In 1925, Arkell gifted the original section of our current building to the village in memory of his father-- remaining actively involved until his death in the 1940s. In 1929, the Memorial Gardens were created in memory of Arkellโs wife, Louisanna Grigsby Arkell. Along with Humoresque, a sculpture by artist Harriet Frishmuth, our garden continues to be a renowned landmark associated with our organization. A major expansion of our building was completed in 2007 that created a museum to exhibit our Fine Art Collection, made possible by the Arkell Hall Foundation. The Foundation is a separate organization but remains a significant financial benefactor. The Arkell Museum features an extensive collection of American paintings, sculptures, Mohawk Valley history, and Beech-Nut advertising memorabilia from the early 20th century. In addition to our permanent and rotating galleries, our three Regional Art spaces showcase the talents of local artists. The Canajoharie Library is an important source of educational, social, and entertainment opportunities through year-round programming, but we also provide crucial access to information, technology, and office services. We strive to create a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for people of all ages. Only by working together as a single organization are we able to promote and celebrate the arts and humanities in Canajoharie, the Mohawk Valley, and beyond.
Art & Design Ancient art Historic house Industrial heritage Modern art
#65 Art & Design in New York State #14 Ancient art museums in New York State #88 Historic houses in New York State #11 Industrial & heritage museums in New York State #33 Modern art museums in New York State #125 Ancient art museums in United States #198 Industrial & heritage museums in United States #192 Modern art museums in United States
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 – 17:00 |
Holiday Closures:
New Yearโs Eve
New Yearโs Day
Easter Sunday
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve
Christmas
| 0 – 11 | Free |
| Active Duty Military | Free |
| Adults | US$10.00 |
| Members | Free |
| Seniors | US$7.50 |
| Students | US$7.50 |
Free Admission (With Valid ID)
Active Arkell Museum and Canajoharie Library Members
ESMRP (Empire State Museum Reciprocal Program)
NARM (The North American Reciprocal Museum Associationยฎ)
Children Under 11
Museums for All (Active Snap / EBT Members)
Veterans / Blue Star Museums (Active Military): Includes 1 Free Guest
NYS P-12 and Homeschool Teachers
First Responders (Law Enforcement, EMS, fire & rescue)
Arkell Museum and Canajoharie Library Exhibiting Artists (During Exhibition Period)
2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie

16 May 2026 – 9 Aug 2026

8 May 2026 – 7 Aug 2026

7 Mar 2026 – 2 Aug 2026

7 Mar 2026 – 30 Dec 2026

30 Dec 2026
Arkell Museum and Canajoharie Library has 1 rating.
The Arkell Museum in Canajoharie, New York, offers visitors an impressive collection of American art and local history. Located in a small town, this museum punches above its weight with its quality exhibits. The permanent collection features notable American paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by Winslow Homer and Georgia O'Keeffe. Many visitors appreciate the museum's focus on regional artists and history, particularly its connection to the Beech-Nut company, which was founded in Canajoharie.
The museum's architecture, with its modern addition to the original 1920s library building, is often noted as an attractive feature. The spacious galleries provide a comfortable viewing experience, and the staff is generally described as friendly and knowledgeable.
However, some visitors mention that the museum is relatively small and can be explored thoroughly in a short time. While this compact size is perfect for some, others might find the experience brief. Additionally, a few reviewers note that the museum's location in a small town means it may not have the extensive amenities or surrounding attractions of larger city museums.
Despite its size, the Arkell Museum is widely regarded as a cultural gem in upstate New York, offering a high-quality art experience in an unexpected location. Its blend of American art masterpieces and local historical context provides an enriching visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.