Mission & Vision

To nurture and add value to a county-wide community by preserving and presenting our historic collections in a way that provides more accessible educational opportunities, encouraging dialogue.

To be a culturally inclusive partner, inspiring our future through interpretation of our past.

Recent News

Thank You!

November 4

OCHS recognizes Betty McMahon

November 4

Geoff Astles is named as the new OCHS Board of Trustees President

November 4

The Ontario County Historical Society was founded in 1902 for the purpose of preserving the history of Ontario County, NY. The organization constructed its existing Georgian Revival building in 1914, which was designed by famed architect Claude Bragdon. Located in Canandaigua, NY’s State and National Historic Districts, the building houses the organization’s collections, archives, and exhibit and gallery spaces.

Originally, Ontario County Historical Society’s museum building was also home to Canandaigua’s Wood Library. Today, Ontario County Historical Society shares its space in a new partnership with the Ontario County Arts Council.

The Ontario County Historical Society is a member-supported 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization chartered by the New York State Education Department.

Our Collection

The Ontario County Historical Society collects objects, photographic images, and archival materials that contribute to a more complete understanding of the origins and historical development of Ontario County, NY and its environs. The collection includes items and materials related to the cultural and socio-economic diversity of the county’s inhabitants and their changing lifestyles and values. The collection continues to grow and holds over 12,000 artifacts, 30,000 photographic images, 30,000 archival items, and 5,000 books and periodicals. Please contact us if you have items you would like to donate to the collection.