Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Explore Fall River's History & Culture
Founded in 1921, the Fall River Historical Society stands as the oldest cultural institution in Fall River, Massachusetts. Our mission centers on preserving and exhibiting artifacts that reflect the city's rich history and multicultural heritage. Through exhibitions, educational programs, publications, and cultural events, we serve as a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and the local community. Our French Second Empire mansion, once a station on the Underground Railroad, houses significant collections including costumes, decorative arts, manuscripts, and the world's largest Lizzie Borden collection.We maintain the Charlton Library of Fall River History and operate a renowned Museum Shop & Boutique. Our curators are recognized experts in their fields, particularly in the study of the Lizzie Borden case. We partner with local organizations to present community-focused events and preserve Fall River's textile industry legacy through extensive archival materials. Our commitment to public education includes lecture series, online exhibits, and family-friendly programming that highlights the region's historical significance.
Services
Historical Exhibits
Lizzie Borden Collection
Archival Research
Educational Programs
Holiday Events
Museum Shop
Online Exhibits
Lecture Series
Local History Resources
Textile Industry Archives
Details
- Year established: 1921
Highlights and features
- Oldest cultural institution in Fall River with 100+ years of historical preservation
- Maintains the world's largest collection of Lizzie Borden-related artifacts
- Houses rare 19th-20th century paintings and decorative arts from Fall River's textile era
- Offers award-winning holiday exhibitions and educational programming for all ages
- Maintains the Charlton Library, a comprehensive resource for local history research
What people say
World's largest Lizzie Borden collection
Beautifully preserved mansion
Excellent educational programs
Award-winning holiday displays
Comprehensive archives
Services
Historical Exhibits
Our rotating exhibits showcase Fall River's history through artifacts, artwork, and interactive displays. Features include the world's largest Lizzie Borden collection, 19th-century paintings, and textile industry archives. Exhibits explore local history, maritime heritage, and cultural evolution through curated collections and multimedia presentations.
Archival Research
Access to extensive archives including manuscripts, photographs, and business records dating from the 1690s. Researchers can explore the Charlton Library's collection of local history materials, ephemera, and specialized databases documenting Fall River's development as a textile manufacturing center.
Educational Programs
School field trips, lecture series, and hands-on workshops provide educational opportunities for all ages. Programs focus on local history, preservation techniques, and cultural heritage through guided tours, artifact analysis, and interactive learning experiences.
Holiday Events
Annual holiday celebrations feature award-winning Christmas displays, Victorian high tea events, and special exhibitions. The museum hosts themed tours, Santa visits, and community gatherings that highlight historical holiday traditions in a preserved 19th-century mansion setting.
Online Exhibits
Digital access to curated collections and historical narratives through interactive online platforms. Features include virtual tours of physical exhibits, digitized manuscripts, and thematic explorations of Fall River's history available 24/7 for remote research and educational purposes.
People
Michael Martins
Curator
Experienced museum professional with over 20 years in historical preservation. Specializes in 19th-century American history and the Lizzie Borden case. Leads exhibition development and collection management while maintaining active research programs.
Mark J. Gendreau
President
Community leader with extensive nonprofit management experience. Oversees strategic direction and institutional governance while maintaining strong ties with local historical organizations and preservation groups.
Questions
Is the museum currently open?
The main museum is closed for infrastructure projects until 2025, but the Museum Shop is open Monday-Friday 9-3.
What is the society's most notable collection?
We maintain the world's largest collection of Lizzie Borden-related artifacts and trial materials.
Can I access archives for personal research?
Our Charlton Library offers research access by appointment with advance notice for special collections.
Are group tours available?
Group tours are available by appointment for educational and special interest groups with advance scheduling.
Does the society offer membership benefits?
Members receive event invitations, museum discounts, and exclusive previews of new exhibitions and programs.
