Founded in 1870, the Natick Historical Society (NHS) is one of the oldest local historical societies in Massachusetts. Today, the NHS operates the Natick History Museum and archives, which serves a growing number of community members, scholars, and youths by offering online and in-person programs, exhibitions, and research services, as well as by bringing local history to community projects and events. Since its incorporation, the NHS has remained an independent nonprofit that thrives on the generosity of donors and grantors and receives no municipal funds.

Our mission is to build community by inspiring connections to local history. We partner with over one dozen local organizations each year to offer 30+ free public programs that include walking tours, lectures, a history book club, history-centered dialogue, and musical or storytelling performances. The NHS also brings local history into the community by participating in local events and contributing to historical signage in town. Our internship, fellowship, and volunteer programs have grown to include more than two dozen people of all ages working in collections, cataloging, and public programs. And we offer talks and tours to students in local schools and universities, including an annual series of field trips with Natick's 500 third graders.