Honoring the Legacy of Rev. Vartan Hartunian

Located on the Museum’s second floor adjacent to the Genocide Exhibit, a new display case honors the life and legacy of Rev. Vartan Hartunian, a founder of the Armenian Museum of America and a devoted minister of the First Armenian Church of Belmont. Born in 1915, Rev. Hartunian dedicated his life to faith, education, and remembrance. Following his retirement from ministry, he remained active in the Museum.

At the heart of this installation is a powerful book, Neither to Laugh Nor to Weep, rooted in his father’s firsthand experiences during the Armenian Genocide. Rev. Hartunian spent over 20 years bringing his father’s account to print, and he guided audiences in understanding the moral complexities of genocide.

The new exhibit honoring Rev. Abraham Hartunian and Rev. Vartan Hartunian is sponsored by Dr. Byron Hartunian and Dr. Nelson Hartunian. The Treasures from Our Collection video series is sponsored by Michele M. Kolligian, President of the Museum's Board of Trustees.