Explore
Visit Us
The museum at the corner of East Main and Union in Portsmouth, Rhode Island was established in 1938.
Upcoming Events
We host a variety of events throughout the year, including presentations from local authors and tours of local landmarks.
British Deserters from the RI Garrison
Portsmouth Friends Church | 11 Middle Road Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871Join us for the next installment of the Burt Quist Lecture Series featuring Don Hagist. The author and editor of the Journal of the American Revolution, Hagist will present compelling…
Melville Park Nature Tour
Melville Park | Smith Road Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871Join Portsmouth Historical Society board member Stephen Luce on a guided tour of Melville Park. Discover the natural beauty of Melville Park, part of the 153-acre Melville Recreation Area featuring…
Benefits of Membership
Becoming a member is easy. You can renew online or by mail.
VIP Admission
Your annual membership includes:
- Admission to our museum
- Admission to all Society events
- Two research appointments
- And more!
Special Discounts
Save 10% or more in Society's gift shop! Become a member today and shop our collection of books, postcards and specially curated reproductions from the Society's archives!
Time Traveler’s Membership
Your PHS Membership includes membership in the national Time Traveler’s network. Enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges at museums and historical sites nationwide.
Visit the Time Traveler's website for more info.
Our Car Tour
Take a cruise through historic Portsmouth, Rhode Island taking in the sights from the "good ol' days". This tour starts at the Old Stone Bridge and ends at Greenvale.
The interactive map below showcases the best route for this tour, with directions to each historic landmark. Click or tap on the markers for more details.
Explore Our Collections
We are open for research!
The Society maintains a broad collection of items that document Portsmouth’s social, religious, political, medical, military, archeological and agricultural heritage. The Society also maintains a collection of general items pertaining to the history of the United States as a whole, as this was an additional focus of the Society’s mission when the Society was first formed.
Thank you to our
Circle Members
These members contributed at or above the Anne Hutchinson Circle giving level during our last fiscal year. These members have gone above and beyond in showing their support for our cause of preserving Portsmouth's history for future generations! Thank you!
Support Our Mission
Your support will help us in our mission to Preserve, Protect, and Promote Portsmouth history. Stewardship of our rich history is the legacy that will provide a lasting impact on our citizens and preserve the unique character of our town.
