Conant Public Library Historical Museum

Welcome to the Conant Public Library Historical Museum’s digital collection! Our collection comprises a variety of artifacts and records helping to preserve the rich history of Winchester, New Hampshire and the surrounding areas. It includes the collection of the Washington Library Association (Winchester’s first library), government and business records, newspapers and other local publications, photographs, one of the earliest pipe organs constructed in New England (built by Winchester’s own Henry Pratt), and so much more. The Conant Pubic Library Historical Museum (CPLHM) first opened in 1975, when the two front rooms on the library’s second floor were renovated to create a Historical Department. For the next 30 years, CPLHM was accessible to the public one day a week as a way to learn more about their history and heritage through exhibitions, programs, and a sizable library of genealogical and historical materials. The museum closed its doors to undergo renovation and has remained closed since, preventing patrons from accessing the wealth of historical resources held in its collection. Since 2023, we have been working to reopen the museum, and are proud to announce the launch of our online database, granting the public access to our historical collection as we continue to work towards reopening the museum space for exhibitions, programs, and public enjoyment. If you would like more information on an object in the online catalog, or would like to make an appointment to view an object in person, we encourage you to get in contact with us!