Archives

Our archival collection is divided into two classifications:

• Papers such as journals, wills, deeds, letters, newspaper clippings relating to over 600 Chatham family names.
• Documents relating to the Town of Chatham in general, such as local architecture, community events, businesses, clubs and organizations, maritime history, schools and government archives.

Also included in our archival collection are over 6000 photographs dating from the late 19th century to the present, including portraits, buildings, landscapes, objects, or anything else that illustrates our history.

For research questions or to meet with an Archivist please contact: [email protected]. Archivists are generally available Tuesday & Thursday afternoons, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.. Appointments are preferred. By emailing detailed information about your request in advance, volunteers will be able to provide you with more comprehensive information.

With our expanded archival facilities, it is our goal to be the central repository of all archival material relating to the town. We welcome additions of papers or photographs to this collection.

If you have items to donate, please call (508) 945-2493, write to P.O. Box 709, Chatham MA 02633, or email the Executive Director, Kevin Wright, at [email protected].

Research Request – Using the Archives

It is helpful to both the Museum and to the researcher for the Museum staff to have some time to prepare for a visit by one interested in using the resources in our Archives. We may be able to prepare a list of Archives locations where material is located, or even pull some boxes in advance so the researcher’s visit is more productive.

The Archives’ hours are on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1-4 pm. If you are interested in making an appointment, please email [email protected] with your name, phone number, preferred time to visit, and research interest or question.