Thirty Years of Excellence: An Intrepid Museum Celebration
July 27, 2012 to October 28, 2012

On March 15, 1974, the crew of the aircraft carrier Intrepid left their ship for the last time. In 1982, this proud vessel opened to the public as the centerpiece of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Complex. The founders of the Intrepid Museum faced enormous obstacles in their quest to transform a rusting aircraft carrier into a world-class cultural institution. The special exhibition Thirty Years of Excellence: An Intrepid Museum Celebration traces the dynamic history of this New York City institution and looks toward its exciting future.

Thirty Years of Excellence showcases photographs, video footage, artifacts and archival materials that trace the story of the Intrepid Museum. Over its thirty-year history, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Complex has advanced the ambitious legacy of its founders. The Museum has established itself as a leader in the preservation of history, an anchor of New York City’s West Side and the heart of major philanthropic organizations. The space shuttle Enterprise, the Museum’s newest addition, highlights the Museum’s continued commitment to providing exciting educational experiences. Through these endeavors, the Museum has touched the lives of millions of people around the world.