Welcome to the Orleans Historical Society

September - June off season hours are Tuesday - Friday 9 am - 12 pm
Please call for archival research appointments.

Saturday, February 18, 2012

60th Anniversary of the Pendleton rescue by the CG36500

Commemorative events are planned by the USCG to be held at Chatham Fish Pier and Chatham Light Station.
A bio-degradable wreath will be taken out on the CG36500 to the bar where it will be tossed overboard, remembering those who risked their lives to save others, and those who lost their lives. The rescue boat will then be available at the pier for viewing afterwards. A ceremony will be presented at the Chatham light station following. Expected guests are Andy Fitzgerald (crewmember), Pattie Webber Hamilton (daughter of Captain Bernie Webber), Bridges (Pendleton survivor), and a few member's of Irving Maske's (crewmember) family.
Download details of the event>>

Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 4:00 PM

The Sea's Other Bounty,
a Program of Music, Words and Imagery Inspired by the Sea

This unusual program combines music by Ravel, Debussy and Perera; poetry and prose; a wide selection of seascapes, and a group of ballads and chanteys all inspired by the sea.
Performers are Bo Ericsson, cello, David Gable, violin, Kenneth Fearn and Kaeza Fearn, piano,
John Yankee, voice, and Jerome Karter, reader.

Tickets $20 on sale now by calling 508-240-1329. A limited number of tickets will be sold at the door.

Summer 2012

War of 1812

War of 1812 in Orleans logo contest! Open to Orleans high school students.
Enter to win > >
Orleans Historical Society joins other Cape Cod towns celebrating the 200th anniversary of this important occasion.
Read now about the Battle of Rock Harbor and look for our events and exhibit notifications coming soon!

Summer 2012

Cranberries and Other Cash Crops

Look for our exciting 2012 summer exhibit featuring the agricultural history of Orleans!

Mayo Duck Farm presentation video

produced by Dave Strickler, video recording by Jess Tucker.
View now > >

Naustical manuscript

Community Preservation Act

The Society is currently working on several preservation projects made possible through grants provided by the Community Preservation Act.
To learn more about these projects click here >>

Historic House Plaque Project

Beautiful historic markers for qualifying houses.
Members $95 ~ Non-members $120
Find out if your house is eligible for a marker!
For details and an application download PDF here
or call 508-240-1329

French Cable Station Museum

located in Orleans, contains an historic collection of Atlantic undersea telegraphic cables, instruments, maps, and assorted memorabilia. Come and see history. Learn more > >