Old Colony History Museum | Taunton

Old Colony History Museum
Location: 66 Church Green, Taunton, Massachusetts

The Old Colony History Museum (OCHM) is one of the most prominent historical institutions in southeastern Massachusetts. Dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich heritage of the region historically known as the Old Colony (the area settled by the original Plymouth Colony), the museum is operated by the Old Colony Historical Society, established in 1853-making it one of the oldest historical societies in New England.

🏛️ The Building

The museum is housed in the former Bristol Academy, a stately Italianate-style building constructed in 1852. Designed by Richard Upjohn, one of the most renowned American architects of the 19th century, the structure features classical proportions, rounded arch windows, and ornamental brackets under wide eaves-all hallmarks of the Italianate style. The building itself is a piece of architectural history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It stands on Church Green, a historic district that includes some of Taunton's oldest and most elegant buildings.

🧭 Mission and Scope

The museum’s primary mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of the Old Colony region, which includes modern-day Bristol County and surrounding areas. Its focus spans from the pre-colonial era through to the present day, and it serves historians, genealogists, students, educators, and tourists.

🗂️ Collections and Exhibits

OCHM holds over 13,000 artifacts in its permanent collection. These items span a wide array of historical categories:

Decorative Arts: Period furniture, silverware (notably from Taunton-based Reed & Barton), ceramics, and locally produced items.

Textiles and Clothing: Garments from the 18th to the 20th century, along with military uniforms and accessories.

Militaria: Weapons, medals, and memorabilia from American conflicts, including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and World Wars.

Household and Trade Tools: Artifacts related to daily life and industry in southeastern Massachusetts.

Portraiture and Photography: Paintings, daguerreotypes, and photographs of notable regional figures and families.

Manuscripts and Ephemera: Letters, maps, genealogical records, newspapers, school documents, and business ledgers.

There is also a research library and archive with a specialized focus on genealogy and local history. This resource is particularly valuable for tracing family ancestry or studying regional social and industrial development.

🖼️ Notable Exhibitions

Some of the museum’s exhibitions rotate throughout the year, while others are semi-permanent. Noteworthy displays include:

“Reed & Barton: Building the Silver City” – This exhibition showcases Taunton’s deep connection with the silver industry, especially through the globally recognized Reed & Barton Company.

Colonial Life and Early Settlement – Featuring tools, clothing, and maps related to the early settlers of southeastern Massachusetts.

Military Through the Ages – Highlighting local contributions to national military conflicts with uniforms, weapons, and personal narratives.

Fashion and Function – A display of historic garments that reflects changing tastes, technologies, and social norms.

🧒 Education and Public Programs

The museum is actively involved in educational outreach and public programming:

Guided Daily Tours: Offered at 12 PM, these docent-led walkthroughs provide visitors with context and background for the exhibits. Included with admission.

Group Tours: Curator-led group visits (by reservation), often focused on thematic topics such as women’s history, Taunton’s role in the American Revolution, or industrial heritage.

Workshops and Lectures: The museum hosts regular speaker events, workshops, and discussions on historical topics relevant to the region.

Family and Youth Activities: Events include Free Family Days, school field trips, interactive exhibits for children, and colonial life demonstrations.

🎉 Annual Events and Community Involvement

The museum plays a key role in organizing community-wide events such as:

Liberty & Union Festival – Held each October, this festival commemorates the raising of the “Taunton Flag” in 1774, a bold pre-Revolutionary War statement of colonial resistance. This flag-bearing the words “Liberty and Union”-was one of the first revolutionary banners raised in defiance of British authority.

Seasonal Holiday Events – In line with Taunton’s identity as “The Christmas City,” the museum participates in holiday festivities and local tours.

🕰️ Visiting Information

Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays.

Admission:
Adults: $5
Seniors/Students: $3
Children under 12: Free
Also participates in Blue Star Museums, NARM (North American Reciprocal Museum), and offers library passes for free or reduced admission.

Accessibility: The museum is partially wheelchair accessible and staff are available to assist. Special accommodations can be arranged by contacting ahead of time.

Parking: Free parking is available on-site and nearby along Church Green.

🧭 Location and Setting

The museum is located in the center of Taunton’s historic Church Green district, which includes the First Parish Church, the Taunton Public Library, and is within walking distance of Taunton Green, the city’s central square. The neighborhood itself provides a rich historical walking experience.

Summary

The Old Colony History Museum is a well-preserved, thoughtfully curated institution that captures the essence of southeastern Massachusetts's past. With its wealth of artifacts, historic architecture, and dynamic programming, it serves as both a cultural anchor for Taunton and an educational destination for those interested in America’s early days, industrial heritage, and regional identity. Whether you're tracing family roots, exploring colonial history, or just enjoying the architecture and stories of a New England town, the museum offers a rewarding and enriching experience.