03/28/2026
This April marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Vojta Náprstek (1826–1894), one of the most remarkable figures of the Czech 19th century — innovator, philanthropist, traveler, and supporter of Czech communities abroad.
Join us for the second lecture in our online series with Dr. Markéta Křížová from Charles University in Prague:
“THE MAN WHO BROUGHT THE WIDE WORLD TO THE CZECHS: THE HISTORY OF THE NÁPRSTEK MUSEUM”
📅 Sunday, March 29, 2026
⏰ 2:00–3:00 PM CT
💻 Online via Zoom
It is still not too late to join the series — upon registration, you will also receive access to the recording of the first lecture.
🎟 $15 for the full series / $10 single lecture
🎥 All lectures are recorded and available for 30 days
👉 Register here to receive your Zoom link:
https://forms.gle/Am5VQyM8Cjho1Hcp7
Presented by the T. G. Masaryk Czech School in collaboration with the Czechoslovak Heritage Museum
Innovator, philanthropist, patriot: Vojta Náprstek (1826–1894) was a fascinating figure who left a deep mark on Czech society and on the long-term relations between Bohemia and Czech communities abroad. He spent ten years in the United States (1848–1858), where he worked as a journalist, supported Czech emigrants, and studied the life and culture of Native Americans. After returning to Prague, he promoted the ideals of American democracy and scientific progress.
He founded the Czech Industrial Museum (later the Náprstek Museum), opened his library to the public, and became actively involved in public life. He supported a wide range of social reforms, from education for girls to civic marriage and cremation, and was a devoted supporter of Czech travelers abroad. In 1888, he co-founded the Czech Tourist Club. Both the museum and the Tourist Club still exist today, testifying to his lasting legacy. The 200th anniversary of his birth, celebrated in April 2026, offers an opportunity to revisit his remarkable life and work.
