MHS Fund & Membership
Just as a tree stands strong due to its stable roots, the MHS draws upon the support of its Members to stay strong and promote growth. In return, MHS Members—who have been a vital resource to the Society since its founding in 1791—are connected to history through access to an unparalleled collection as well as enriching events and exhibitions. Today, the MHS is recognized nationally for learning, research, and discourse about American history and civic life. Our Members make it possible for us to offer an array of complimentary services including free admission to our exhibition galleries and library, online access to our collections and digital editions, and customized research assistance to scholars and audiences of all backgrounds.
Membership begins with a fully tax-deductible contribution of $250 or more to the MHS Fund. By becoming a member, you are investing in the study, preservation, and distribution of American history from the first historical society in the nation.
Support the Society's mission while enjoying special benefits.
The MHS Fund provides the essential everyday resources that move our top priorities forward. With your support, the Society can offer culturally relevant exhibitions, educational and enriching programs, public access to rare primary sources, and special care of our world-class collection.
All Members enjoy a full year of social, cultural, and educational experiences. And you can maximize the impact of your gift by checking if your employer offers a corporate match.
To review the many ways you can make a gift to the MHS, please click here.
Please see giving levels and benefits below.
Base Benefits - all levels receive these benefits
- Invitations to Member-only events
- Free or discounted program registration
- Annual Member Week perks and promotions
Steward Member
$250 - $999
Base Benefits, plus:
Recognition in Annual Reports
Coverage for up to two people in a household
GIVE
Ambassador Member
$1,000 - $7,499
Steward Benefits, plus:
Choice of books related to the collection
Select MHS publications
Gift membership for a household of choice
GIVE
Guardian Member
$7,500 - $14,999
Ambassador Benefits, plus:
Exclusive invitations to leadership donor events and programs
Priority registration to limited-capacity events
Priority access to all digital programs and podcasts
GIVE
Champion Member
$15,000 - $24,999
Guardian Benefits, plus:
Private reception and tour for four with content expert, such as the Chief Historian, Curator of Arts & Artifacts, or Editor-in-Chief of the Adams Papers
GIVE
President's Circle Member
$25,000 +
Champion Benefits, plus:
Invitation to annual President's Circle Dinner with Dr. Catherine Allgor and notable guest speaker
Participation in President's Thought Leadership Group
Young Patron Member (Age<40)
$40
Base Benefits, plus:
Special invites to Young Patron-only events
GIVE
Other Gift
All gifts are deeply appreciated. To make a gift of a different amount, please click HERE.
The MHS is proud to offer K-12 Educators a special membership rate of $100. To become an Educator Member, please contact our Assistant Director of Individual Giving, Patrick Holmes, pholmes@masshist.org or 617-646-0551.
Maximize the impact of your gift
See if your employer offers a corporate match at www.masshist.org/matching-gifts.
The Massachusetts Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) exempt organization under IRS Code; EIN 04-2108374.
For questions regarding membership or the MHS Fund please email membership@masshist.org or call 617-646-0551.