Who We Are

Founded in 1791, the Massachusetts Historical Society is an independent research library and an invaluable resource for American history, life, and culture.

Portrait of John Adams

Adams Resources

Detail of Shaw Memorial

Exhibitions

Detail of the declaration of independence.

Collection Highlights


Object of the Month MHS Gallery Annotated Newspapers of Harbottle Dorr

“The question is whether the historico-literary line is practically worth following”

In a letter written on 2 June 1872, Henry Adams reviews the state of historical scholarship in the United States and advises Henry Cabot Lodge on the possibility of a career writing American history. More »

Notice: Library Closing @ 2:30 PM
Wednesday, 7 May 2014

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Events

Dr. Zabdiel Boylston Adams: Surgeon & Soldier for the Union
Pre-Talk reception at 5:30pm 6:00PM Wednesday, 23 April 2014

Gallery Talk
2:00PM Friday, 25 April 2014

MHS Tour MHS Tour: The History and Collections of the MHS
10:00AM Saturday, 26 April 2014

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From our Blog

Harry Adams Hersey’s Bike Ride: Creating a Digital Map from a ...

This Week @ MHS

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Latest MHS News

David McCullough to Receive John F. Kennedy Medal

Tell It with Pride Opens at the MHS 21 February

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