Barnes Reaches $200 Million Goal

The Barnes Foundation has raised $200 million in funds for its new location on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. In 2009, the foundation was struggling financially and consisted of approximately 400 members. Now, two years later, the membership tally is up to 10,000 and their move from Merion to the Parkway should be complete sometime next year, against the will of late founder Albert Barnes. Courts ruled that the foundation could pursue the move to the Parkway in spite of Barnes’ will—which called for the vast collection of art and artifacts to remain in Merion. Despite the August 1st court date to revisit the issue, the Barnes foundation will close the Merion location on Sunday as the move will take some time to complete. [Inquirer]