Osterville Historical Society

The Osterville Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit museum established in 1931 that preserves the village's history through its permanent collection of decorative arts, antique furniture, ceramics, and over a dozen full-sized wooden Crosby boats. It operates on a two-acre campus featuring historic gardens, including an authentic 18th-century herbal garden and a 19th-century ornamental garden, and offers educational opportunities for people of all ages. The museum's mission is to acquire and preserve objects of historical relevance to Osterville while presenting them in a dynamic environment to encourage an interest in the village's history.

The museum currently operates on a seasonal schedule, reopening mid-June with hours from 10 AM to 2 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit around these specific times, as the facility is closed for the season outside of this window.

The museum's permanent collection includes over a dozen full-sized wooden Crosby boats, which represent the village's enduring boatbuilding legacy. Other key features include the Cammett House, the oldest house in Osterville, and the Parker House, which features period rooms with decorative arts, ceramics, and furnishings. The Jelly House is also a small historic outbuilding with its own unique story.

The museum's two-acre campus features historic gardens, including an authentic 18th-century herbal garden and a 19th-century ornamental garden. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds or relax with coffee under the sun while using the free WiFi available on the premises.

The museum participates in the Mass Cultural Council Card to Culture program, which provides free and discounted performances and classes for eligible Massachusetts residents. This program offers access to EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare discounts through participating organizations, increasing cultural access for all residents.

The museum holds a 4.1 out of 5 rating from 11 reviews on Trustburn, with the most recent feedback dating back to September 2023. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors praising the educational and immersive exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the museum.

Reviewers frequently highlight the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Osterville's history, as well as the friendly and passionate staff who go above and beyond to make visits memorable. Many guests specifically mention the thoughtful curation of exhibits and the comprehensive overview of the town's history provided during guided tours.

Some reviewers noted that the museum is a hidden gem that provides a fascinating glimpse into the town's history, while others appreciated the attention to detail and the magical ambiance created by the well-maintained exhibits and gardens.

The museum offers a Farmers' Market featuring the best of land and sea, as well as wedding and event hosting services on its coastal campus. Memberships and donations are also available, with 100% of all purchases, memberships, and donations directly supporting the museum's preservation mission.

The museum's leadership includes Executive Director Jennifer Morgan Williams and Museum President David Lawler, who work to steward the historic houses, gardens, and boatbuilding heritage. The executive director can be reached at (508) 280-8882 for specific inquiries related to the museum's operations.

The museum's website, ostervillemuseum.org, provides detailed information about the permanent collection, including the Cammett House, Parker House, Crosby Boats, and the Jelly House. Visitors can also find current hours, upcoming events, and a calendar of activities on the site.

The museum's mission is to acquire and preserve objects of historical relevance to Osterville, present them in a dynamic environment, and offer enrichment and educational opportunity for people of all ages. This mission guides all aspects of the museum's operations, from its collection management to its educational programs.

The museum's tax ID number is 04-6113382, and it operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This status ensures that 100% of all purchases, memberships, and donations directly support the museum's mission of preserving Osterville's story for every generation.

Osterville Historical Society is located at 155 W Bay Rd, Osterville, Massachusetts.

Osterville Historical Society has official profiles on Facebook.