The Library’s Historical Museum, located on the second floor of the Library, was established in 1863 and consists of a permanent and eclectic exhibit of historical artifacts relating to Lancaster. The collection represents a wide assortment of items, ranging from Civil War memorabilia to Neolithic stone tools. Highlights include:

• • the Mary Rowlandson chest
  • Colonel Francis Washburn’s Civil War uniform and saber
  • the Elias Sawyer plate
  • Flagg children portraits by Joseph Badger

Public access to the Library’s Historical Museum outside of open hours is arranged by the Special Collections and Archives Librarian by appointment only. Visitors with appointments will be given priority over patrons who visit unannounced.

To initiate a visit to the Thayer Memorial Library Historical Museum, please contact the Special Collections and Archives Librarian by email and give as much information as possible about your request:  vhatchell@lanacasterma.gov