The American Museum, established in 1828, was located in New York City and played an important role in the cultural life of the early 19th century. Initially founded by John Scudder, the museum was situated in the New York Institution building at Broadway and Ann Street, just below 20th Street. It housed a collection of natural history artifacts, curiosities, and exhibits that reflected the era's interest in science, education, and entertainment.

Key Points about the American Museum in 1828:

1. Founding and Location:

   • The museum was established by John Scudder as a repository for his collection of artifacts and curiosities.
   • Located in lower Manhattan, the area was the center of the city’s social and commercial life in the early 19th century.

2. P.T. Barnum's Acquisition:

   • In 1841, P.T. Barnum purchased Scudder's American Museum and transformed it into a major attraction. Under Barnum, the museum became a blend of education, entertainment, and spectacle, featuring live performances, oddities, and interactive exhibits.
   • Barnum's museum, located at Broadway and Ann Street, became a cultural phenomenon during his tenure.

3. Urban Context:

   • By 1828, Manhattan’s urban development was concentrated below 14th Street, and the museum’s location reflected the city's commercial and cultural hub at that time.
   • The museum served as a precursor to modern museums and entertainment venues, drawing both local and visiting audiences.

4. Legacy:

   • The museum burned down in a fire in 1865, but its influence persisted in how museums and attractions combined learning and entertainment.

If you're curious about the American Museum’s relationship to urban development in New York City, it illustrates how cultural institutions began clustering in bustling, accessible parts of the city as it expanded.