514 Hanover St, Hanover, MA 02339

The Hanover, Massachusetts, Historical Society, established in 1928, is a non-profit organization seeking to promote a better understanding of Hanover’s unique heritage through education and preservation.

Through its vast collections of books, textiles, historical objects and artifacts, the Hanover Historical Society encourages a better understanding of the town’s history to foster community in the present.

The Stetson House

This beautiful historic home was built between 1694 and 1716 by Samuel “Drummer” Stetson and was home to three generations of the Stetson family. Over the years the house has been a private home, a tavern, and even a place for religious services. Today, the Stetson House is home to the Hanover Historical Society and its collections and artifacts.

Featured Event

Tavern Night!

The Hanover Historical Society is hosting its annual Tavern Night at the Historic Drummer Samuel Stetson House in Hanover Center!  Samuel Stetson was a noted man in 1700s Hanover when his home was a “tavern stand and a famous place of resort.”  

Date:

May 30, 2026

Time:

5:30 PM

Location:

Stetson House

Education

Bring the Hanover Historical Society to your classroom! We proudly offer in-classroom educational programs as well as special class tours of the Stetson House and grounds.

ARTICLES & OTHER NEWS

Revolutionary Neighborhoods Walking Tours: Hanover Center

The Hanover Historical Society will lead a series of walking tours of five areas in town on the second Saturday of each month, May through September. Each tour will focus on what a particular neighborhood was like in 1776, 250 years ago, during the American Revolution.

Archival Spotlight!

Rehousing and organization efforts at the Archives have begun! We are creating box lists and inventories, as well as rehousing delicate and unsafe materials in their new archival safe folders and boxes. And we need your help!

Featured Collections & Exhibits

Archival Spotlight!

Rehousing and organization efforts at the Archives have begun! We are creating box lists and inventories, as well as rehousing delicate and unsafe materials in their new archival safe folders and boxes. And we need your help!

Transportation Collection of the Hanover Historical Society

See the various carriages and carts in Hanover's collection, and learn more about their uses.

From the Hearth: Food in Hanover 200 Years Ago

Meet John and Mary, two young historians. They wanted to learn more about what was eaten in Hanover 200 years ago. Learn along with them!

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