History and background

AFRMG was founded in 2003 (originally as “The American Fund for the National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory, Greenwich”) by a group of dedicated patrons in the US and UK. Inspired by Royal Museums Greenwich’s rich heritage, they recognized the importance of creating a U.S. charity to offer support.

Since then, AFRMG has been proud to help RMG fulfill its vision of being a global destination for learning about Britain’s maritime story and its contributions to science and art. Every year, millions visit RMG’s sites in London (including hundreds of thousands of visitors from North America), and through AFRMG we ensure American supporters can play a direct role in the Museum’s success.

Impact highlights

Over the years, donations through AFRMG have made a significant impact.
We have contributed funding and expertise toward:

Exhibitions & Loans

From groundbreaking shows like Astronomy Photographer of the Year to historic exhibits like Death in the Ice (the Franklin expedition), AFRMG support has helped these exhibitions tour prominent U.S. venues, reaching new audiences.

Museum development

AFRMG donors were among those who helped build new facilities like the Prince Philip Maritime Collections Centre (opened 2018) and are now rallying behind the First Light project to reinvent the Royal Observatory for its 350th anniversary.

Education & Research

Gifts to AFRMG have funded internships, scholarships, and collaborative research, sharing RMG’s world-renowned expertise in maritime history and astronomy with educators, students, and scholars in the U.S.