The Rhode Island Historical Society

The Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS) was founded in 1822, making it the country's fourth-oldest state historical society. RIHS operates as a private organization that is supported by its membership. Its historical collection includes 25,000 museum objects, 100,000-plus printed books, and 110,000 photographs, as well as sound recordings, films, manuscript collections, maps, architectural drawings, and assorted ephemera.

A Smithsonian affiliate, the RIHS owns and oversees two National Historic Landmarks — the John Brown House Museum and the Aldrich House — as well as the library, and it maintains the Museum of Work and Culture. The organization also provides educational programs including workshops, lectures, and walking tours, supports teachers seeking to incorporate Rhode Island's history into their curricula, presents exhibits, films, concerts, and assorted community activities, all of which promote the rich history and culture of the state.