New Hampshire is home to over 200 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Concord to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to New Hampshire's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
New Hampshire Historical Society
Location: Concord, NH
Founded: 1823
One of America's oldest historical societies, operating museum and research library in the state capital. Features extensive collections on New Hampshire history from colonial settlement through industrial revolution and modern times.
Website: nhhistory.org
Strawbery Banke Museum
Location: Portsmouth, NH
Founded: 1958
Living history museum preserving Portsmouth's waterfront neighborhood with buildings spanning four centuries. Features costumed interpreters, historic gardens, and exhibits on maritime heritage and colonial life.
Website: strawberybanke.org
Canterbury Shaker Village
Location: Canterbury, NH
Founded: 1792 (village), Museum 1969
Preserved Shaker community showcasing 200 years of Shaker life, craftsmanship, and innovation. Features original buildings, workshops, and exhibits on Shaker spirituality, communal living, and inventions.
Website: shakers.org
New Hampshire Historical Society
Location: Concord, NH
Founded: 1823
State's premier historical organization operating museum and research library. Collections document New Hampshire from colonial settlement through industrial development and tourism economy.
Website: nhhistory.org
Strawbery Banke Museum
Location: Portsmouth, NH
Founded: 1958
10-acre outdoor history museum preserving Portsmouth's waterfront neighborhood. 37 restored buildings spanning four centuries interpret port city's evolution from colonial times to WWII.
Website: strawberybanke.org
Canterbury Shaker Village
Location: Canterbury, NH
Founded: 1792 (village), 1969 (museum)
Preserved Shaker community with 25 original buildings on 694 acres. Interprets communal religious society known for celibacy, equality, and innovative craftsmanship that thrived 1792-1992.
American Independence Museum
Location: Exeter, NH
Founded: 1991
Located in Ladd-Gilman House where New Hampshire's revolutionary government met. Collections include rare copy of Declaration of Independence and materials on founding fathers.
Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center
Location: North Conway, NH
Founded: 2001
Interprets extreme weather atop Northeast's highest peak. Interactive exhibits explain why Mount Washington holds world record for surface wind speed and its role in meteorology.
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Submit a Society →Additional New Hampshire History Resources
- New Hampshire Historical Society - Statewide history organization
- New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources - State historic preservation office
- New Hampshire State Archives - State archives in Concord