Wenham Museum stewards a diverse collection of approximately 60,000 objects that tell the story of life in New England from the 17th century to today. From the everyday to the extraordinary, these objects offer insight into how people have lived, worked, dressed, and played across generations.

Collection Highlights

The collection is especially known for its nationally recognized doll and toy holdings, as well as its model train gallery, historic costumes and textiles, and extensive photograph collection. Together, these materials illuminate childhood, community life, and the changing rhythms of daily experience over time.

Historic House & Hands-On Spaces

At the heart of the Museum’s collection is the circa 1690 Claflin-Gerrish-Richards House, where visitors can step into the past and experience early New England life firsthand. Across the Museum, hands-on spaces like the Family Discovery Gallery invite visitors to connect with history in engaging and meaningful ways.

Exhibitions & Rotation

The Museum’s first-floor galleries were renovated in 2019 to create flexible exhibition space for changing installations and new interpretations of the collection. While many objects are not always on view—both to support long-term preservation and to allow for rotation—items from the collection continue to be featured in exhibitions throughout the year.

A Living Collection

Whether on display, in storage, or featured in research and programs, the collection remains a living resource, one that continues to grow, evolve, and inspire curiosity in visitors of all ages.

If you are interested in donating an object to the collection, click here to learn more.