Why Akron?
May 6, 2025 through Dec. 23, 2026
National Museum of Psychology, Special Exhibit Gallery
The first psychology laboratory in the United States was founded in Baltimore. The first psychological clinic was created in Philadelphia. So how did Akron become home to the world’s largest archive of psychology? Why Akron? seeks to answer this question, exploring how Ohio’s Rubber City became an international hub for the history of psychology.
The Archives of the History of American Psychology is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Join us as we share stories entrusted to us by the psychological community. From the first materials received to our largest collection, this exhibit reflects on our past as we prepare for the next 60 years.
Why Akron? has been researched, written, and installed by students in The University of Akron’s Museums & Archives Certificate Program in collaboration with staff from the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology. Additional assistance has been provided by student assistants Joseph Kaltenthaler, Christian Lewis, and Lacy Nicholas.
Highlights
The Anthropology of Galeazzo Capella
1533
Written by Galeazzo Capella
Gift of Florence & Solomon Diamond
Archives of the History of American Psychology
Edward B. Titchener’s Christening Gown
ca. 1860s
Gift of Rand Evans
Archives of the History of American Psychology
David P. Boder's Wire Recorder
ca. 1940s
Peirce Wire Recorder Corporation
David P. Boder Papers
Archives of the History of American Psychology