The Cantor Arts Center boasts a proud and venerable history, as it was conceived of in tandem with the founding of Stanford University itself. The Stanford family, including Leland Jr., traveled the world collecting objects of art and cultural interest. The museum was originally created to make this collection available to students and the public. It has withstood natural disasters and periodic neglect, only to be resurrected, renewed, and expanded, with its collections stronger than ever, thanks to the passionate dedication of Stanford faculty and staff, and art lovers in the surrounding community.

For those interested in learning more about the history of the museum, the Bookshop offers Building on the Past, Richard Joncas' documentation of the rebuilding project, and Museum Builders in the West: The Stanfords as Collectors and Patrons of Art 1870--1906, by Carole Osborne, an emeritus Associate Director of the museum.