Portsmouth Athenaeum

The Portsmouth Athenæum's Shaw Research Library is a center to study regional history, literature, and culture. The library provides researchers, both in person and online, access to an extensive collection of manuscripts, photographs, maps, books, periodicals, ephemera, and local imprints. The library is free and open to the public five days per week.

NH Gives 2026 will support phase one of a planned three-phase multi-year restoration for the Portsmouth Athenæum’s landmark historic buildings located at 9 and 6-8 Market Square. Phase One includes brick masonry and wood trim repair on the exteriors facades of all Athenaeum buildings. The total cost of this year’s project will be $69,800. This major project will ensure the protection and care of our important historical collections, the most important of which is our historic buildings.

OUR HISTORY

Incorporated in 1817, the Portsmouth Athenæum began as a membership library, and remains solely funded by the generosity of our members, friends, and granting institutions. The organization purchased the New Hampshire Fire Marine Insurance Company in Market Square in 1823.

Once the gathering place for "prominent business and professional men of the town, with a sprinkling of retired sea-captains," the Athenæum is now a vibrant sponsor of lectures, exhibits, concerts, poetry, and spirited discussion. 

The Athenæum continues to serve as a meeting place for those who wish to exchange ideas and information about diverse aspects of history and culture.

If you are not a member, your contribution of $25 or more will enroll you as a Friend of the Athenæum.

Here are the benefits at the Friend level:

•    Subscription to the Athenæum’s quarterly newsletter, with up-to-date information on events and activities, as well as notice of recent acquisitions of books, special collections, and curatorial objects

•    Free admission to lecture series

•    Advance notice of lectures and programs

•    Invitation to exhibit openings in the Randall Gallery

For more information about our organization, visit www.portsmouthathenaeum.org.