History Museums in Massachusetts

The Boston Tea Party was a significant event in American history, marking a turning point in the relationship between the American colonists and the British government. On December 16, 1773, in Boston, the colonists staged a protest against the British government, which is now known as the Boston Tea Party. This event is considered one of the key events in the formation of the United States and played a central role in the American Revolution.

The Paul Revere House, constructed around 1680, served as the residence of American patriot Paul Revere during the time of the American Revolution. This historic house, located at 19 North Square, Boston, Massachusetts, is the oldest house in downtown Boston. It has been a National Historic Landmark since 1961 and is now operated as a nonprofit museum by the Paul Revere Memorial Association.

The Bunker Hill Monument is a significant historical site located in Breed's Hill, in the city of Charlestown, which is now a district of Boston, Massachusetts. This 67-meter high obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, a pivotal event in the American Revolutionary War. Despite the name, the majority of the battle took place on Breed's Hill, not Bunker Hill.

The New England Holocaust Memorial, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is a poignant tribute to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust perpetrated by Nazi Germany. Founded by Stephan Ross, a Holocaust survivor, the memorial was erected in 1995 and serves as a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed during this dark period in history.

The Old State House is a significant historic building situated at the intersection of Washington and State streets in Boston, Massachusetts. This location in the northeastern United States is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

The Old South Meeting House, a historic Congregational church building, is situated at the intersection of Milk and Washington Streets in the Downtown Crossing area of Boston, Massachusetts. This significant structure was constructed in 1729 and has since been a notable part of Boston's history.

Since 1997, the USS Constitution has been moored in the harbor of Boston, specifically in the Charlestown district. This historic ship is open to visitors all year round, offering a unique opportunity to explore a piece of American naval history. The ship is maintained by 60 officers and sailors, all of whom are in active service with the United States Navy. They provide tours, maintain the ship, give lectures for students, and participate in official ceremonies.

The Witch House, also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, is a history museum located at 310 Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts. This historical site is the only remaining structure with direct ties to the Salem witch trials of 1692. The house was probably built between 1620 and 1642 and was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who was involved in the witch trials. Today, the Witch House offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the Salem witch trials and the life of Judge Corwin.

A museum dedicated to the famous which hunts in 1692 Salem.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a repository of official documents and correspondence of John F. Kennedy, who served as the President of the United States from 1961 to 1963. These documents provide a comprehensive insight into his presidency and the political climate of the time.

After its closure, the shipyard was transformed into a park and is now the berth of two historic naval vessels. The 18th-century frigate USS Constitution, also known as 'Old Ironsides', and the World War II destroyer USS Cassin Young are both docked here. Visitors can explore these vessels and learn about their significant roles in American naval history.

Plimoth Patuxet, formerly known as Plimoth Plantation, is a complex of living history museums located in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Founded in 1947, the museum complex aims to replicate the original settlement of the Plymouth Colony established in the 17th century by English colonists, also known as the Pilgrims. The museum complex provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the life and culture of the Pilgrims and the Patuxet people, upon whose land the Pilgrims settled.

The Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East, formerly known as the Harvard Semitic Museum, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1889. It moved to its current location at 6 Divinity Avenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1903. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the Ancient Near East.

If you didn't have enough witches and witch trials monuments, there is always more in Salem! Worth stopping by.

The Mayflower II is a faithful replica of the 17th-century merchant ship, the Mayflower, which is renowned for transporting the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World in 1620. This historical ship provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience a piece of history.

The House of the Seven Gables, also known as the Turner House or the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, is a significant historical site in Salem, Massachusetts. Constructed in 1668, it is one of the oldest mansions in North America that is still standing. The mansion boasts 17 rooms and spans over 700 square meters, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Jabez Howland House, located at 33 Sandwich Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a historic site with a rich history. This house, built in the 17th century, offers a glimpse into the past and the lives of the original Pilgrims.

The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is a renowned institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is affiliated with the prestigious Harvard University, making it a significant part of the academic and cultural landscape of the area.

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts holds a significant place in history as the oldest military organization in North America and the nineteenth oldest in the world. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in military history and the early history of the United States.

The Nichols House Museum is situated at 55 Mount Vernon Street on Beacon Hill in Boston, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The museum is housed in a building that was designed by the architect Charles Bulfinch and built by Jonathan Mason, a politician, in 1804.

The William Hickling Prescott House, also known as the Headquarters House, is a historic house museum located at 55 Beacon Street on Beacon Hill in Boston, Massachusetts. This location is significant as it was the home of one of the nation's first historians, William Hickling Prescott. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of Prescott.

Heritage Museums and Gardens, previously known as the Heritage Plantation of Sandwich, is situated at 67 Grove Street, Sandwich, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The museum and gardens are a testament to the rich history and culture of the area, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore and learn in a serene and picturesque setting.

The Pilgrim Hall Museum, situated in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a museum dedicated to the Pilgrim Fathers. These English Puritan refugees left Leiden, Netherlands in 1620 to cross over to the New World on the Mayflower. The museum provides a rich historical context for understanding the journey and experiences of these early settlers.

The Witch History Museum, situated in Salem, Massachusetts, offers a unique experience to its visitors through its dioramas and first person narrations. These features provide an immersive and interactive way to learn about the history of witch trials.

Chesterwood, previously known as the Daniel Chester French Home and Studio, was the home and workspace of the renowned American sculptor Daniel Chester French. This historic site, located in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, served as French's residence from 1896 until his death in 1931. Today, it is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Mary Baker Eddy Library, located on Massachusetts Avenue in Boston, serves as a research library, museum, and repository for the papers of Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science. The library is housed in a portion of an 11-story structure that was originally built for the Christian Science Publishing Society. This location offers a unique blend of historical and architectural interest.

The Peabody Essex Museum is a renowned museum situated in the city of Salem, Massachusetts, in the United States. It is a significant cultural institution that offers a wide range of collections and exhibits for visitors to explore. The museum's location in Salem, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage, adds to its appeal for tourists.

The African Meeting House, which is now the Museum of African American History, is located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. This historic building has been a part of the Beacon Hill Historic District since 1966 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. In 1974, it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The building was constructed entirely by black workers in 1806 and still retains its 19th-century character with its red bricks laid in Flemish bond.

The Harrison Gray Otis House in Boston, Massachusetts, is not just one, but three distinct houses. All of these were designed and built by the renowned American architect Charles Bulfinch for the same person, Harrison Gray Otis, a Federalist lawyer and politician. Each house showcases Bulfinch's architectural prowess and provides a glimpse into the life and times of Otis.

The Concord Museum is a local history museum situated at 200 Lexington Road, in Concord, Massachusetts, USA. It is a place where visitors can learn about the rich history of the area and its notable residents. The museum is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past.

The Friendship of Salem is a faithful reproduction of the 1797 Indiaman ship, Friendship. This square-rigged three-masted ship was constructed in 1995-96 at the Scarano Brothers shipyard in Albany, New York. The replica maintains the appearance of the original 18th-century ship, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the period.

The Chatham Railroad Depot is a historic train station building located in Chatham, Massachusetts. It is recognized for its historical significance and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition adds to the cultural and historical value of the site, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The Massachusetts Archives is home to a vast collection of historical documents and artifacts. These include the state’s own copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, the 1780 Massachusetts Constitution, and the 1629 charter of Massachusetts Bay. The archives also house Revolutionary and Civil War records, documents signed by George Washington, John Adams, and John Hancock, treaties made with Native American tribes, and slave and witchcraft records. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive look into the history of Massachusetts and the United States.

The Cooper–Frost–Austin House, a historic Colonial American house, is located at 21 Linnaean Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts. This house, built in 1681, holds the distinction of being the oldest extant home in Cambridge. Its rich history and architectural significance make it a point of interest for those interested in colonial American history.

The Cape Ann Museum, situated in Gloucester, Massachusetts, is a renowned institution that combines art and history in its exhibits. The museum's collections and programs primarily focus on the artists and art colonies of Cape Ann, including the Rocky Neck Art Colony and the Folly Cove Designers. It also showcases objects from Gloucester's fishing and maritime history, and granite quarrying history, providing a comprehensive insight into the region's rich cultural and industrial past.

Today, the Boott Mills complex stands as the most complete remainder of the antebellum textile mills that were built in Lowell. The original Mill No. 6 is managed by the National Park Service and is part of the Lowell National Historical Park. It houses the Boott Cotton Mills Museum and the Tsongas Industrial History Center, which offers educational programs for K-12 students.

The Hoxie House, located in Sandwich, Massachusetts, is a saltbox house that was built around 1675. According to the Massachusetts Historical Commission, it is likely the oldest extant house in the area. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in architecture and history.

Naumkeag is a significant historical site located in the Berkshire Mountains in the town of Stockbridge, Massachusetts. This 48-acre estate was once the summer home of New York lawyer Joseph Hodges Choate. The property offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the wealthy during the Gilded Age.

Fort Taber District, also known as the Fort at Clark's Point, is a historic military fort from the American Civil War era. It is located on Wharf Road within the former Fort Rodman Military Reservation in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This fort holds significant historical value and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting site for tourists interested in history and military architecture.

The Wannalancit Mills, previously known as the Suffolk Mills, are located in Lowell, Massachusetts. This early American cotton mill has parts that date back to the 1830s, making it a significant historical site. The mill's name is derived from Wonalancet, a leader of the Penacook Native American tribe.

The New Bedford Fire Museum is a local history museum situated at 51 Bedford Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history of firefighting in the city through a collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) is a museum dedicated to the whaling industry. It is located in the American city of New Bedford. The museum is part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, which is a national historic site specializing in whales. This is because the port of New Bedford was one of the most prominent whaling ports in the world during the 19th century.

The Springfield Armory and Arsenal, officially known as the National Armory, Springfield, played a significant role in the manufacture and development of handheld firearms in the United States. This role spanned from 1777 to 1968, marking a significant period in the history of American weaponry.

Beauport, also known as the Sleeper–McCann House, Little Beauport, or the Henry Davis Sleeper House, is a historic house located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA. This house holds a significant place in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. It was built in 1908 and served as the summer home of interior decorator and antique collector Henry Davis Sleeper. The house is situated on the rocks overlooking Gloucester Harbor, providing a picturesque view for visitors.

The Sargent House Museum is a historic house museum situated at 49 Middle Street, Gloucester, Massachusetts. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the past. The museum is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the area and provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the life and times of the people who once lived there.

Hammond Castle is a unique historical site situated on the Atlantic coast in the Magnolia area of Gloucester, Massachusetts. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a castle with a rich history, while also enjoying the beautiful coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Constructed in 1749, the two-story wood-frame building is considered to be the oldest wooden courthouse in the United States. It stands on the site of the first courthouse built by Plymouth Colony settlers, and it is believed to incorporate elements of a 1670 building. This makes it a unique piece of architectural and historical significance.

The Harlow Old Fort House, located at 119 Sandwich Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a historic house from the First Period. This significant structure offers a glimpse into the architectural style and living conditions of the early settlers in the region.

The Plymouth Antiquarian House, also known as Hedge House or Hammat House, is a historical museum that is situated at 126 Water Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich history of the area.

The Isaac Winslow House, also known as the Winslow House Museum, is a historic mansion located in Marshfield, Massachusetts. Built around 1700, the house is a significant part of American history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This mansion was the ancestral home of the founding family of Marshfield and was considered an avant-garde South Shore mansion.

The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is a significant institution founded by and dedicated to the former U.S. Senator Edward M. (Ted) Kennedy, who was the youngest brother of the former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. This institute is a tribute to the Kennedy family's contribution to American politics and offers a unique insight into the life and work of Edward M. Kennedy.

The Boston Fire Museum, formerly known as the Congress Street Fire Station, is a historic fire station located at 344 Congress Street in Boston, Massachusetts. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of firefighting in Boston, housed in a building that itself has a rich history.

The National Streetcar Museum is a unique attraction located in Lowell, Massachusetts. It is not just a museum, but also a heritage railway, offering visitors a chance to explore the history of streetcars in the United States. The museum is a part of the Lowell National Historical Park, which is operated by the National Park Service.

The Salisbury Mansion and Store, located at 40 Highland Street in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a historic house museum. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the history and architecture of the period. Visitors can explore the mansion and store, learning about the history of the Salisbury family and the role they played in the local community.

The Worcester Historical Museum comprises both permanent and temporary exhibits, offering visitors a dynamic and ever-changing experience. In addition to these exhibits, the museum also houses a research library, providing a wealth of resources for those interested in delving deeper into the history of Worcester. The museum also owns and operates the local Salisbury Mansion, adding another layer of historical exploration for visitors.

The Merwin House, also known as Tranquility, is a historic house museum located at 14 Main Street, Stockbridge, Massachusetts, USA. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting stop for tourists exploring the area.

The Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation is a museum dedicated to the American Industrial Revolution. It is conveniently located on the Charles River Bike Path, near the intersection of the Charles River and Moody Street in Waltham, Massachusetts. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are interested in exploring the history of industry and innovation in America.

This former lifesaving station now serves as a museum of coast guard and lifesaving activities.

Orchard House, also known as Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, is a former residence and now a museum located in Concord, Massachusetts, United States. This historic house, built in the mid-17th century, is best known as the home of the Alcott family, where Louisa May Alcott wrote her famous novel 'Little Women' in 1868.

The Concord School of Philosophy, located in Concord, Massachusetts, was a hub for philosophical discussions and lectures during the summers from 1879 to 1888. This institution was a significant part of the Transcendentalist movement and was founded by Amos Bronson Alcott. The school's first meeting was held in the Alcott family home, Orchard House, and later moved to a new building funded by William Torrey Harris and Louisa May Alcott.

The Codman House, also known as The Grange, is a historic house situated in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This historic estate is located at 36 Codman Road and offers a glimpse into the past with its rich history and architectural beauty.

The Gropius House in Lincoln, Massachusetts, served as the residence of renowned architect Walter Gropius from its construction in 1938 until his death in 1969. This historic property offers visitors a glimpse into the life and architectural style of Gropius, who was a leading figure in the modernist architecture movement.

The Dwight–Derby House is a historic site located at 7 Frairy Street in Medfield, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the past of this region. The house stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the area.

The Loring–Greenough House, located at 12 South Street on Monument Square at the edge of Sumner Hill, is the last surviving 18th century residence in the historic section of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, a neighborhood of Boston. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in historical architecture and the history of Boston.

The Maritime Museum at Battleship Cove, previously known as the Marine Museum at Fall River, is located in Fall River, Massachusetts. This historical and nautical museum is home to a wide range of memorabilia, artifacts, and ship models, including those of the Fall River Line and the infamous RMS Titanic. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into maritime history and explore the rich collection it has to offer.

The museum also offers Plymouth History walking tours.

The Titanic Historical Society (THS) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1963 by Edward Kamuda in Massachusetts. The main aim of the society is to preserve the memory of the Titanic, its sinking, and everything related to the ocean liners of the early 20th century. Over the years, the society has grown in importance and has become the reference society concerning the Titanic.

The Quadrangle, located in Metro Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, is a hub of cultural institutions and museums. Situated on Chestnut Street between State and Edwards Streets, it offers a variety of experiences for visitors. From art to history, there's something for everyone at this unique cultural destination.