Commonwealth Museum

At 220 Morrissey Blvd, the Commonwealth Museum tells the story of Massachusetts through exhibits and original historical records. Its darkened treasure room displays documents including the state’s copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. Interactive elements add variety for children, while the exhibits trace Massachusetts history and its role in movements for change. The museum is part of the State Archives, and admission is free. It is a compact stop near the JFK Presidential Library, with exhibits spread across two floors.

Documents in the treasure room

The museum’s historic records are displayed in a dimly lit room. Among the documents highlighted in the material are Massachusetts copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, along with the 1780 Massachusetts Constitution and the 1629 Massachusetts Bay charter. Some records are associated with figures including George Washington, John Adams and John Hancock.

The display focuses on documents rather than a large collection of objects. Photography is not permitted for at least some of the documents, so check signage in the gallery before taking pictures.

A changing account of Massachusetts

The permanent exhibition, The Massachusetts Experiment in Democracy: 1620-Today, follows the state’s history from early colonial settlement onward. Other displays cover subjects including the Puritan settlement, the Townshend Acts and the suffrage movement. Changing exhibitions add further topics from Massachusetts history.

Interactive components make the exhibits more engaging for school-age children, though much of the museum is based on reading. The galleries cover a wide range of subjects in a small space, so you can skim for an overview or spend longer with the material that interests you.