Bergen Museum of Art & Science Frequently Asked Questions

Q.   When was the Bergen Museum established?
A.   In 1956 a new museum was formed to provide a center for the purpose of stimulating youth and adult interest in the arts and sciences. The founding board of directors opened a location on Fort Lee Road in Teaneck. In 1969, the Museum moved to the location at East Ridgewood and Fairview Avenues in Paramus. The Museum's trustees have relocated the Museum to the lower level of the Bergen Mall, Paramus, NJ.  The Museum is incorporated as 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization.

Q.   What is the mission of the Bergen Museum?
A.   To participate in the community quality of life by bringing world class exhibits and programs to the public. The Museum also recognizes that Bergen County is a combination of many distinct cultures, a reflection of great cultural diversity.  The Bergen Museum continues to explore the region's roots and identity by promoting its regional artists through our Exhibitions, Bergen Music & Art Festival, juried shows, Youth Art Gallery, Music programs, Holocaust Yom Hashoah Remembrance, visual arts and science programs.  The Museum's education outreach programs bring educational programs to the public.

Q.  What is in the collection?
A.  The collection is composed of Regional historical and local artwork that includes the Bergen Museum's Stefan Knapp Mural (was once displayed on the Alexander’s building in Paramus), paintings, photographs, the Mastodon skeletons, substantial collection of donated artwork and scientific objects.

Q.   Where is the Museum's collection?
A.   A number of the Museum's finest pieces are placed within the County's office buildings.  The balance is secured in the Museums storage sites.  The collection will soon be relocated to the Museum’s new gallery at the Bergen Mall in Paramus. 

Q.  How many mastodon skeletons does the Museum own?
A.  The Museum has two mastodon skeletons. The Hackensack mastodon was discovered in 1962 during the construction of Route 80. The Dwarskill Mastodon was discovered in 1973; excavated by the Museum’s original founders.

Q.  What is the Museum’s main source of funding?
A.  30% of the Museum's income originated from membership and programs; 30% corporate and private support;  40 % of the Museum's funds came from government funding.

Q.  Is there a full Board of Directors?
A.  Yes. There is a full Board of 9 individuals that hold a clear vision and provide leadership in developing new programs, building collaborative relationships to benefit the future of arts, sciences, and culture in Bergen County and the region.

Q.  What are the future goals of the Bergen Museum?
A.  The Museum continues to enrich the region’s culture and quality of life through the production and presentation of “World Class” exhibits, educational programs and the annual production and hosting of a BMAS Film Festival and the Bergen Music & Art Festival © .

Copyright 2003-2008, 2009 - The Bergen Museum of Art & Science - All Rights Reserved
Web Design by Dr. James Waldron / Techno-Works, Inc