Historical Society of Watertown
About
The Historical Society of Watertown collects, preserves and shares materials from Watertown’s past so residents can better understand their community and themselves. It is based in the Edmund Fowle House, built in 1772 and the second oldest surviving house in town. The society was founded in 1888 by Dr. Alfred Hosmer, Rev. Edward Rand and library director Solon Whitney, and it welcomes people of all backgrounds who want to learn about local history.
The Fowle House has a notable Revolutionary past. From July 1775 to September 1776 it served as headquarters for the executive branch of the Massachusetts government. On July 19, 1776, the Treaty of Watertown was signed in its second-floor Council Chamber, the first treaty between the new United States, represented by Massachusetts, and a foreign power, the Mi’kmaq and St. John’s First Nations. Visitors can tour the house and its artifact collection.
What to Know
- An online 3D tour of the Fowle House is available before visiting.
- The house can be rented for small functions and meetings.
- Books and other Watertown history items are for sale and make good gifts.
- Memberships are offered, and the society hosts programs and events.
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