Founded in 1791, the Massachusetts Historical Society is the oldest historical society in the United States and an independent research library devoted to the manuscript record of America. Its collections hold extraordinary treasures: the papers of John Adams and Abigail Adams, Thomas Jefferson’s architectural drawings, Paul Revere’s own account of his famous ride, and millions of pages of letters, diaries, and documents spanning four centuries of American life.
Housed in a 1899 Beaux-Arts building on Boylston Street in the Fenway neighborhood, the Society welcomes the public to free rotating exhibitions drawn from its archives, alongside lectures, author talks, and seminars. Researchers can request materials in the reading room, while casual visitors can simply step in to view the galleries. Because programming and exhibition schedules change frequently, check the official site at masshist.org before planning a visit.
Good to know
- Exhibition galleries are free and open to the public
- It is the oldest historical society in the United States, founded in 1791
- Holds original Adams family papers and Paul Revere materials
- The reading room serves researchers; check access requirements in advance
Getting there
- Address: 1154 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215
- Neighborhood: Fenway
- Nearest T: Hynes Convention Center (Green Line B/C/D), a short walk away