In general we host events of an educational, cultural, or historical nature and typically work with non-profit organizations and local businesses, but are happy to discuss rentals with all types of groups. We are able to accommodate cocktail receptions, seated meals, and meetings, and all uses are subject to the approval of the Museum. We do not permit fundraisers on site, unless they are for the Museum. For events of a political nature, we request strict adherence to our requirement that the OCHM’s hosting of the event implies no endorsement of any political party, candidate, or policy position and that message conveyed as such to event organizers, candidates, the audience, and any members of the press who attend. Events that disrupt or conflict with the primary use of the building as a public museum will not be permitted.

Capacity will vary by the nature of the event and type of set up, but the maximum is 80 guests.

The large gallery on the first floor is the main area for rentals, though renting groups have access to the second-floor exhibits as well. Any food service must be set up and take place on the first floor. Renting groups do have access to the museum’s kitchen, though this is not a catering kitchen and has limited resources.

Please keep in mind that as an active museum works of art may be relocated or reexhibited at any given time.

Yes! Please remember that this is a historic building and extra precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of the building and the museum collections. A member of the Old Colony History Museum staff will be on the premises for all function rentals. The Museum reserves the right to remove any individual(s) from the premises if said individual(s) is/are deemed by Museum staff to pose a security threat to guests of the event, Museum visitors, and/or Museum property. Please note that food and/or drink service is not permitted on the second floor of the Museum. Absolutely no smoking is permitted on Museum premises.

DECORATIONS: The Museum provides space, six (6) rectangular tables, eighty (80) chairs and trash cans for rental use. Linens may be rented from the museum at an additional cost. Decorations, floral arrangements, and the like are the responsibility of renter and they must be set up and removed the day of the event. Hooks, nails, tape and staples may not be mounted on the walls, chairs, or tables. Renters are prohibited from modifying space in any way that may cause permanent/temporary damage to the facility. Candles cannot be used within the facility.

FOOD: The Museum exclusively works with a caterer familiar with the historic nature of our building. Kerry’s Catering LLC will work with any budget to create a custom menu suited to your event. Please note if you choose to bring your own food that the Museum does not have a full kitchen, it serves as a prep space only. The Old Colony History Museum takes NO responsibility for any items left after an event.

ALCOHOL: The Museum reserves the right to review, approve and/or rescind plans for serving beverages, both with or without alcohol, as part of a scheduled rental event. It is understood that beverage service can only begin at the contracted event start time and must terminate within one-half hour of the contracted event ending time. Prior to the event, the renter must provide a current Certificate of Liability Insurance naming the Old Colony History Museum as an additional insured as well as an “alcohol rider” (if such drinks will be served at the event) prior to the event date. Please note that food and drink service are not allowed on the second floor of the Museum. All alcoholic beverages must be served by a TIPS certified bartender. Please note Kerry’s Catering can provide this service. OCHM staff members reserve the right to halt alcohol service if necessary.

Renting our space starts at $100/hour. We are happy to work with any group and any budget to make your experience the best it can possible be! Please reach out to us at 508.822.1622 to start planing your events today. OCHM members receive a discount and priority when renting the space.

Full payment of the rental fee is required at least one week prior to the event date. It is the sole responsibility of the renter to make sure that payment and all paperwork is received by the Old Colony History Museum. Cancellations made by the Renter must occur in writing within at least 30 days of the event date. The Museum reserves the right to reschedule any rental if circumstances require it, though this is not something we expect to occur.

Let’s schedule a site visit so we can show you around! Site visits are available by appointment only from Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10:00am to 4:00pm. To request an appointment please call 508.822.1622

Thank you for your interest in the Old Colony History Museum. We look forward to working with you on your event!