On July 30, 1945, the USS Indianapolis was torpedoed in the South Pacific by a Japanese submarine. An estimated 300 men were killed upon impact and close to 900 sailors were cast into the sea, fighting off sharks, hypothermia, and hallucinations. When they were finally discovered only 317 men were still alive. Using slides, NY [...]
Join us every day at 12:00 PM for captivating Guided Highlight Tour of the Old Colony History Museum! In just 30 minutes, you’ll discover fascinating stories, meet standout objects from our collection, and get a taste of the rich history that shaped Southeastern Massachusetts. Perfect for first-time visitors and locals alike—no reservation needed, just drop [...]
August Adventures returns from the Highland Street Foundation! 31 days, 31 events, 100% FREE! August Adventures 2025 provides access and opportunities to new and old partners highlighting the geographical and cultural diversity of the Massachusetts arts and culture community. All who visit on Saturday, August 2 receive free admission to the OCHM between 10am and [...]
Calling all taphophiles! Join the Old Colony History Museum’s Dr. Bill Hanna for a guided walk through two of Taunton’s oldest cemeteries. These adjacent burying grounds date back to the 1700s and feature stories of local sea captains, soldiers, and enslaved people. Tours are approximately one hour; light rain or shine. We encourage appropriate footwear [...]
Every other month, for one night only, Curator Bronson Michaud shares a collection of objects that you won’t see anywhere else. This is your chance to explore these fascinating pieces up close and hear their unique stories. And, thanks to Berkley Beer Company, you can enjoy an ice-cold beer (or root beer) with your admission! [...]
Thank you for supporting, the Old Colony History Museum. We are proud to be a 2025 Blue Star Museum! Blue Star Museums is a free admission program for active military and their families. The program runs from Armed Forces Day (May 17, 2025) and officially ends on Labor Day (September 1, 2025).
History Never Tasted So Good! Join us this September for a Members-Only event at the Old Colony History Museum: Old Colony Bake Off! Whip up a dish from the past and bring it to the table as we celebrate culinary traditions and taste our way through history. Whether you’re competing or just sampling, it’s sure [...]
Just in time for the Old Colony History Museum’s new timepiece display “Second Hand Stories,” East Freetown’s own Patrick Mont—factory-trained clockmaker and Chelsea expert— explores the history of a legendary clockmaking brand. Mont’s passion for horology ignited while working on the historic designs of Chelsea Clock Company, and now he’s sharing the fascinating story behind [...]
At the time of the American Revolution, Taunton’s most notorious Loyalist lawyer was a man named Daniel Leonard. What became of him? As the 251st celebration of the Liberty & Union flag (Liberty & Union Day) quickly approaches, you’ll get the chance to meet him in person! Join us as historical reenactor Michael Lepage brings [...]
