The Massillon Museum was founded in 1933 to display the small, yet noteworthy collections of city residents. A thriving industrial city at the turn of the century, Massillon was a major heavy manufacturing center. Wealthy industrialists toured the world and brought back photographs, artifacts and works of art that families and heirs wished to preserve. Originally organized as a part of the city’s public library, the museum gradually outgrew its quarters.

van Dijk Pace Westlake was retained to design the museum’s new facility. After an extensive investigation of available sites, the museum found a fine 1930s Art Deco building with an excellent location.

The main entrance and lobby area feature design elements that recall Massillon’s industrial base, particularly its connection with steel. The major element is a thirty-foot long “steel wall” extending behind and providing a dramatic focus for the cafe.

A new, welcoming and festive facade became the focus of the new facility when the display windows facing the park, once partially sealed, were returned to their original appearance. This, in turn, highlights the park as an intimate and significant component of the museum, as well as a new community “living room’ which fosters participation, group activity and an enhanced urban identity. This outdoor area is used for a variety of community arts functions, as well as antique and classic car shows, festivals and receptions.