McKim and the American Academy in Rome

In 1901 McKim sought Morgan’s endorsement for a cherished project: a new academy in Rome that would serve as a classical training ground for American artists and architects. Morgan agreed to join fellow collector and businessman Henry Walters in a public declaration of support. A few months later, in early 1902, Morgan invited McKim to his home for breakfast and asked him to design his Library.

Morgan ultimately joined Walters in providing significant financial support for the American Academy in Rome, which would become a major international center for scholarship and creative exchange. It still thrives today.