Founded in 1830, the Museum is dedicated to attracting the broadest possible spectrum of participants, and involving them in activities, exhibits and programs which will: encourage curiosity, questioning and exploration; inform and educate; enhance a sense of personal achievement in learning; respect individual interest, backgrounds and abilities; and promote life-long learning and informed and active citizenship. More than 1.6 million people visit the Museum and its more than 400 interactive exhibits each year.