Welcome to the Vermont Historical Society

The Vermont Historical Society is the only organization in Vermont that collects artifacts, books, and documents that reflect the entire history of the state, including every geographical area and every chronological period. We have been preserving the history that makes Vermont a special place to live, work, and visit since 1838.

Visit Vermont's history museum and library

Learn about Vermont's exciting past in our Montpelier museum exhibit "Freedom & Unity: One Ideal, Many Stories." The award-winning 5,000 square foot exhibit tells the story of Vermont's people from 1600 to the present. You’ll see how Vermont's motto, "Freedom and Unity," is truly the cornerstone of our state, balancing individual freedoms and community. Visit the online exhibit.

Our Howard and Alba Leahy Library in Barre offers access to thousands of books, manuscripts, photographs, broadsides, maps, audio, video and film recordings, and many other items of ephemera which shed light on the lives and times of past Vermonters.

Come to events, programs & workshops

Fun history events, school programs or scholarly presentations—our education programs and calendar give you many interesting ways to learn about Vermont and its history.