Southold Historical Museum

Mission Statement:
Southold Historical Society was founded in 1960 to promote interest in and education about the history of Southold and to bring together those persons who desire to discover, acquire, preserve, maintain, and exhibit historic sites, buildings, and relics.
(Southold Historical Society began using the assumed name of Southold Historical Museum 7/1/2021.)

A private non-profit chartered by the NYS Board of Regents, Southold Historical Museum is instrumental in preserving and sharing the rich, local history.  To do this, the museum uses it significant collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and documents. The Maple Lane Complex includes over a dozeb buildings dating from 1700s (home and barn) through the early 20th century.  Demonstrations and tours are offered to visitors during the summer season and for special events.  The Museum also operates a Nautical Museum at the c.1857 Horton Point Lighthouse which contains fascinating maritime exhibits. The Lighthouse is listed on both the State & National Registers of Historic Places as are two of the buildings on the Maple Lane Complex (the Ann Hallock Currie-Bell house and the Thomas Moore/Samuel Landon house.)  Additionally, Southold Historical Museum’s Gift Shop and Treasure Exchange are located in the c. 1874 Henry W. Prince Dry Goods Store. The shops include local books and gift items. The building also serves as the Museum’s headquarters and archives. 

The Museum is fortunate to have an extensive collection including a robust archive which stores letters, newspapers, maps, photographs, media, etc.  The archives are a substantial resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.