Woods Hole Historical Museum, Falmouth

Nestled within the Woods Hole Historic District, the Woods Hole Historical Museum (WHHM) is a dynamic institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Originally founded in 1973 as the Woods Hole Historical Collection, a subcommittee of the local library, the museum found its permanent home in 1976 when it moved into the Bradley House. Over time, the site expanded with the addition of the Yale Workshop and the Swift Barn, evolving into the Woods Hole Historical Museum by 1996.

WHHM offers a diverse range of rotating exhibits, engaging programs, and archival resources, appealing to visitors with interests spanning from maritime heritage to scientific exploration. The museum’s 19th-century buildings contribute to the cultural tapestry of Woods Hole, housing a carefully curated collection of artifacts and documents that tell the story of the town’s transformation-from its humble fishing and farming roots to its prominence as a center for world-renowned oceanographic research.

Beyond exhibits, the museum breathes life into history through multimedia presentations, special publications, and hands-on programs, including wooden boat-building and restoration. Visitors can also partake in a weekly walking tour, held every Tuesday at 10 AM, offering an immersive journey through the area's storied past.

For those eager to explore the many layers of Woods Hole’s history, from its maritime adventures to its summer retreat traditions, WHHM serves as an invaluable gateway to the past, ensuring that the town’s legacy remains vibrant for generations to come.