Peabody Historical Society Spark's Curiosity!

Founded in 1896, we are a center for the collection, preservation, education, and enrichment of Peabody’s cultural heritage. With eight properties throughout the City, we steward an impressive archive of Peabody’s history.

Let us spark your curiosity!

• Have questions about deed records on a property or old photographs of your building ?
• Interested in learning how to research your family’s history ?
• Would you like to take your family on a tour of one of the oldest continuously standing homes in the region ?
• Are you looking for a chance to volunteer, expand your skills, and explore history outside of the classroom ?

A Museum that works in the Community
Our philosophy here at the Society aims to promote public access, education, and curiosity. We provide research services, historic house and gallery tours, and online educational materials that bring critically-researched history to you or your classroom.

How do we do this? Spanning three centuries, our collections have largely been acquired through donations by Peabody residents and their descendants. Whether you are interested in family genealogy, bolstering your classroom curriculum, or are simply curious,reach out and schedule a visit to our archives! You will get one-on-one time with our curator as well as a chance to explore primary sources (the collections) with your own eyes. As digital tools become ubiquitous, we prioritize partnerships to make our collections accessible online as well!

Programming for the Public:  Throughout the year, we schedule monthly events, such as our guest lecture series held at the Smith Barn. We also participate in public events such as Patriot’s Day in April and the International Festival in September. As a member, you would also gain access to our bi-annual dinners, opening day exhibition events, and monthly newsletters.

Is there something you’d like your local history museum to offer? We are always open to suggestions and invitations to partner for larger projects or events.

Looking for a venue that makes a difference?

Our historic Smith Barn, surrounded by two hundred and fifty acres of orchard and conservation land in Peabody can be rented out for your next event.
​What makes our venue unique? All proceeds go directly back into stewarding our historic houses and collections. What we host:

• Weddings;
• Corporate;
• Public events;
• Bereavement; and
• Celebrations of all sorts are welcome!

Interested in a tour of Smith Barn?  Check out our website!  peabodyhistorical.org