Historical Society History

Founded in 1905 by a group of historians, the Historical Society initially met in private homes and presented lectures on Cambridge history. Beginning in 1906, these lectures were published as The Proceedings.  A short time later the Society began collecting books, documents, significant papers and photographs.

Officers and Staff

Since 1957 the Cambridge Historical Society has been headquartered at the Hooper-Lee-Nichols House at 159 Brattle Street. Many activities take place there. We invite you to become a member of the Society and join us in preserving Cambridge's history and heritage.

Cambridge Historical Society Goals:

The Cambridge Historical Society will pursue a visible identity as the local history museum for Cambridge, operating as an educational resource center in the public interest. This identity will incorporate not only exhibitions and research facilities, but also programming and publications.

• It will serve residents and visitors who have an interest in history and development of the community and in the stories of the many ethnic and cultural groups who have lived here.
• The Society will conduct active outreach to the diverse constituents who share an interest in the history of the community. It will welcome new supporters from all sectors of the community, both as members and as partners in collaborative efforts.
• The Society will grow and become more professional. To adequately accommodate and support this growth and greater level of professionalism, the Society infrastructure will be systematically improved. A larger professional staff; appropriate technology; efficient office and museum spaces; improved administrative operations; an effective conservation program for the Hooper-Lee-Nichols House and collections; and a funding structure to adequately provide for the financial needs of the institution are important elements of this goal.

Mission

The Cambridge Historical Society acts as a living repository for Cambridge's tradition and history.  It maintains property entrusted to it and collects, preserves and interprets items of historical and antiquarian significance.

The Society encourages research and involvement in these efforts by its members and the community at large. In so doing, it promotes a better understanding of history as an important factor in the everyday affairs of the City and its residents.