Field Guide

Museum Hours

Saturday 10am-1pm

Sunday 1pm-4pm

Admission is always FREE.

Handicap parking at rear, access via an elevator is available at the back entrance of the Museum. Ring bell.

Contact Us!

Email

franklinmuseum1778@gmail.com

alan.r.earls@gmail.com

Location

80 West Central St

Franklin, MA

Mailing Address

Franklin Historical Museum

c/o Town of Franklin

355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038

Volunteers wanted

Do you love history -- or just want to be involved in your community? We have an ongoing need for volunteers to help with everything from hosting, during open hours, to helping with research and exhibit development.

Curious, please contact

alan.r.earls@gmail.com

About Blue Star Museums

COMING SOON! Antiques Appraisal at the Museum

The event will offer local residents an opportunity to bring antiques, collectibles, heirlooms, and unusual items to be evaluated by a highly experienced appraiser, James C. Johnston. Items may include artwork, coins, jewelry, books, documents, military items (but no guns, please!), toys, advertising items, and historical memorabilia. Verbal appraisals will be provided, along with general information about the item’s age, origin, and current market interest.

Event Details:
Saturday, May 9
Franklin Historical Museum
80 West Central St., Franklin, MA
1-5 pm
Cost: $10 for 1 item, or 3 for $25

Senior Citizen Discount (65+, $5 for 1 item and $10 for 3 items)

No appointment is necessary. For more information, contact alan.r.earls@gmail.com.

Historic Happenings at the Museum

ON EXHIBIT NOW: Franklin Sons & Daughters of Italy 100th Anniversary

Franklin’s Italian community started its 'Sons & Daughters Chapter, The Quattro Eroi (four heroes) Lodge, named to honor the four Italian-American men from Franklin who died in the Great War. 2026 Marks its Centennial. On display will be photos and memorabilia. Open 10-1, Free, Donations Appreciated.

Saturday, May 2

Happy Birthday Horace! ~ For kids and families

The museum will show some short videos about Horace, for older kids and adults. And for elementary school age kids, we will have participatory diorama and discussion with our volunteer educator and buildings and figures representing the Franklin of Horace Mann's Childhood. Come share the adventure of young Horace (and some birthday cake!). Programs are free but donations are always
appreciated! 10 am to 1 pm

Sunday, May 3

Sunday Speaker Series: Phil Balkus

To celebrate Horace Mann, and because the Second Sunday falls on Mothers Day, we will have our special monthly speaker on May 3. Educator and Franklin resident, Phillip Balkus, who recently completed an academic thesis on Horace, will be exploring the less famous role of Horace Mann as a citizen of Franklin, where he returned to rescue the fortunes of his brother and manage other investments -- in the process also helping the town of his birth. Doors open at 1 and the program begins at approximately 1:15. The event is free but donations are always greatly appreciated.

Saturday, May 16

Fakes and Forgeries Exhibit ~ Soft Opening

The Franklin Art Association is back with their fun Fakes and Forgeries shows, including member and non-member exhibitors. The show will begin to be hung on Saturday and should complete Sunday evening. The event is free but donations are always appreciated. Hours are 10AM-1PM.

Sunday, May 17

The LiveArts String Quartet Returns!

After audiences gave an enthusiastic greeting to Live Arts String Quartet in November of 2024, they are back!
This event will include masterworks by Franz Joseph Haydn, Felix Mendelssohn, and Robert Schumann. For
this concert tickets are on sale for a modest admission charge with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the
museum: Adults $25, Seniors 65+ $20, Students 12+ $15, Under 12 Free Please visit the website:
https://www.liveartsstringquartet.org/purchase-tickets-1