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.

Donate

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.

View our digital membership brochure. Giving levels and benefits are listed below along with links to join.

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:
Priority registration to limited-capacity events
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 Interim President Brenda Lawson and notable guest speaker
GIVE

Young Patron Member (Aged 40 and under)

$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 a complimentary membership to K-12 teachers and qualifying retired teachers in Massachusetts. To become an Educator Member, please contact Manager of Individual Giving, Megan McNally at mmcnally@masshist.org or 617-646-0517.

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.