About Lexington History Museums

Since 1886, Lexington History Museums (formerly Lexington Historical Society), has cared for the historic sites and objects that tell Lexington's story—from the opening moments of the American Revolution to today.

As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Lexington, Massachusetts, we also recognize the people—past and present—whose lives, work, and ideas have shaped American history and the town of Lexington. We are committed to discovering and sharing their stories.

Our mission

The mission of Lexington History Museums is to be a premier interpreter of the events of April 1775, and the faithful steward of all of the town's history through time.

Our vision

To facilitate Lexington History Museums’ role as a leading expert in all aspects of Lexington’s history and a premier interpreter of the town’s colonial and Revolutionary War narrative while engaging the diverse Lexington and global community.

The people behind the museums

Our staff, board members, volunteers, and community partners work together to preserve our museums and collections, share the stories we know, and uncover the ones we don't.

From researching objects and preserving historic properties to leading tours, creating programs, welcoming visitors, and asking new questions about the past, our work is grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to telling a richer story of the American Revolution and the town of Lexington.

What we do

Protect

We care for historic buildings that stand as living connections to the American Revolution, maintaining and preserving them for future generations.

Preserve

We collect and preserve photographs, documents, furniture, textiles, and other objects that help us understand Lexington's history.

Interpret

We research and interpret Lexington's history, from the events of April 19, 1775 to the people, communities, and changes that have shaped the town over time.

Connect

Through more than 50 tours, exhibitions, programs, events, school partnerships, and community collaborations each year, we create opportunities for people to engage with history in meaningful ways.

Lexington History Museums:
a timeline

1886
Reverend Edward Porter and Reverend Carlton Staples, ministers of two Lexington churches, founded the Lexington Historical Society.

1891
The Historical Society completed its first preservation project, acquiring and restoring the Old Belfry before returning it to its original location on Clarke Street.

1894
Massachusetts held its first Patriots' Day, made a legal holiday after a successful lobbying push by the Lexington Historical Society and other state historical societies.

1897
Carlton Staples and the Society acquired the Hancock-Clarke House through member donations and fundraising, moved it across Hancock Street, and restored it for public tours.

1911
James Munroe bequeathed Munroe Tavern, used by the British as a headquarters and field hospital during the Battle of Lexington, to the Society.

1914
The town acquired Buckman Tavern and its surrounding land from the Stetson estate, then leased it to the Historical Society under a series of 99-year leases.

1974
Ahead of the Battle of Lexington's bicentennial, the Hancock-Clarke House was moved back to its original site—a widely publicized event backed by community fundraising.

1999
The Society purchased the Lexington Depot—the former train station in the center of town—and converted it into a community event space and its own headquarters.

2025
The organization changed its name to Lexington History Museums, and the Lexington Depot was transformed into a local history museum, opening to the public in time for the Battle of Lexington's 250th anniversary.