We preserve the heritage and history of Maine: the stories of Maine people, the traditions of Maine communities, and the record of Maine’s place in a changing world. Maine Historical Society is the third oldest historical society in the United States. It is comprised of the Longfellow House, home of 19th-century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow; the Brown Library; the MHS Museum and Shop; and the Maine Memory Network, a statewide digital museum.
Maine Historical Society is located on a one-acre campus in the heart of downtown Portland.
Guided tours of the Longfellow House, decorated with original furnishings and family memorabilia, offer a unique glimpse into the life of the poet and his family, as well as into the cultural and social history of 19th century Portland. Longfellow’s poetry and the context of his work are woven throughout the presentation.
Upcoming events for Maine Historical Society.
Come check out our Music in Maine exhibit!
Come and learn about the stories about Maine connections to the classic songs.
Vegetarianism has deep roots in Maine and this first-of-its-kind exhibition explores this untold story.
Come see the new Waynflete School & Maine Memory Network collaborative visual art exhibition.
Tour the Wadsworth-Longfellow House decorated for a 19th century Christmas.
