The Ogden Museum started with the personal collection of Robert Ogden, a businessman and philanthropist with a passion for art by Southern painters. Over decades Ogden amassed one of the most comprehensive collections of such art, dealing with themes and scenery of America’s South, particularly Louisiana.  In 1993 the collection was introduced to the broader American public through two traveling exhibitions, and a permanent residence for the collection was established by a partnership between Ogden and the University of New Orleans.  Construction on Stephen Goldring Hall began in 1999, adjoining the historic Patrick F. Taylor Library (built in 1889, originally named the Howard Memorial Library).

The Ogden has been active in displaying its collection outside of the main facility, with exhibits at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, in the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion, and even the Vatican in Rome.  The Museum has benefited by the addition of several collections from philanthropists and artists from Louisiana and throughout the South, and maintains a busy exhibition schedule.  The last half-decade has seen a great deal of activity after the advent of Hurricane Katrina.  In addition to exhibiting artwork inspired by that catastrophe, the Ogden has become committed to addressing the issue of sustainable architecture in the recovery of New Orleans.