Due to a major infrastructure project, the FRHS Museum will be closed until further notice, starting July 23, 2023.

The Museum Shop is closed until further notice.

HISTORY:

The Fall River Historical Society, founded in 1921, proudly stands as the oldest cultural institution in Fall River, Massachusetts. We offer invaluable support to scholars, researchers, museums, historical societies, and the vibrant local community. The FRHS is deeply committed to preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of Fall River’s history. To that end, our collections span costumes, decorative arts, furniture, photographs, manuscripts, and more.

A French Second Empire mansion, significant for its role in the Underground Railroad, houses the museum. What’s more, this mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features stunning period interiors. The grounds are equally impressive, with Victorian gardens that provide a picturesque venue for events, including weddings and cocktail parties.

COLLECTIONS:

Significantly, the Fall River Historical Society boasts the largest collection of Lizzie Borden artifacts in the world. Other highlights include the Charlton Library of Fall River History, exemplary photographic images, textile mill ledgers, and the Douglas Hills Borden Jr. and Joan Louise Borden Gallery.

Accordingly, as a museum and historical home, the Fall River Historical Society presents period rooms with diverse exhibits. We also host Fall River’s only fine art gallery. The FRHS maintains the largest and most significant collection of art, objects, ephemera, and archival material in the region—underscoring our commitment to cultural preservation. Our website is likewise a treasure trove of historical resources, featuring videos, exhibits, and scholarship by Fall River historians. Our online store offers publications from the Fall River Historical Society Press.

MISSION:

The Fall River Historical Society promotes understanding of Fall River’s history through exhibits, lectures, and community events. This approach ensures that we play a vital role in the community. By combining cultural preservation with active engagement, the FRHS makes history accessible and engaging for all. Our commitment to education and cultural enrichment ensures that we stand as a beacon for historical preservation and community involvement.

Our Blogs

Dive Into History

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Curator's Corner

Musings and news, written by the curator of the Fall River Historical Society, Michael Martins.


Curator's Corner

Musings and news, written by the curator of the Fall River Historical Society, Michael Martins.

Curator's Corner


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Tiny Tuesdays

Every week, an artifact from the FRHS collections that is 5 inches or less will be briefly discussed.


Tiny Tuesdays

Every week, an artifact from the FRHS collections that is 5 inches or less will be briefly discussed.

Tiny Tuesdays


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Time Traveler

This weekly blog offers a peek behind the archival curtain, featuring random selections from the myriad materials housed in our collection.


Time Traveler

This weekly blog offers a peek behind the archival curtain, featuring random selections from the myriad materials housed in our collection.

Time Traveler


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Become a
Member of the FRHS

  • Invitations to all museum programs and events.
  • Reduced admission for select museum programs and events.
  • Invitations to members-only previews and social gatherings
  • 10% discount on Museum Shop purchases
  • Unlimited free visits to the Museum & the Charlton Library of Fall River History
  • Special travel opportunities
Become a Member

Fall River Historical Society

Online Exhibits

Our Exhibitions

Fall River Through the Eyes of Historians

2023 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Black History Month 2023

2023 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Black History Month, 2019

2019 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Black History Month, 2018

2018 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Black History Month, 2017

2017 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Women at Work

2016 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

When the Circus Came to Town

2014 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Fall River History in Postcards

2017 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

St. Patrick’s Day in Fall River, 1958-1959

2020 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

Interesting and Historical Places Around Fall River

2016 Ongoing, Online
Our Exhibitions

MUGS: 1911-1948, from the Collection of the FRHS

2018 Ongoing, Online

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Praise from Publications

Fall River Herald News

Fall River, MA

World’s Largest Lizzie Borden Collection

“The Fall River Historical Society maintains the world’s largest collection of artifacts and material pertaining to Lizzie Borden’s life and trial.”

The Boston Globe

Boston, MA

Hidden Gem

“The hidden gem of the south coast is The Fall River Historical Society.”

The Boston Herald

Boston, MA

Must-See Collection

” … the repository for a must-see collection of Borden-related items. Allow enough time to take the full mansion tour; … it’s a spectacular building with a rich history. ”

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Join Us!

Become a member today to support Fall River's oldest non-profit organization.

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Contact Us

  • 451 Rock Street, Fall River, MA 02720
  • (508)-679-1071
  • cha@fallriverhistorical.org
  • Due to a major infrastructure project, the FRHS Museum will be closed beginning July 22, 2023. The Musem Shop is closed until further notice.