Publications
The Massachusetts Historical Society began publishing books in 1792 and is one of the oldest, continually operating publishers in the United States. The categories below provide an overview of the work made available by the MHS, including printed books, electronic publications, and a newsletter and scholarly journal.
The MHS Publishes
As part of its mission, the MHS maintains its own publishing program and hosts the offices of the Adams Papers Editorial Project. Follow the links below to find more information about these resources.
Print and Digital Editions Published by the MHS
Faculty, graduate students, and independent scholars will discover fresh ideas that support and energize their work in our seminars, conferences, publications, and through our research fellowships.
Featured Publication
The Papers of Robert Treat Paine,
Volume 4:1778-1786
Edited by Edward W. Hanson
The fourth volume of this series encompasses Robert Treat Paine’s time as Massachusetts Attorney General. The documents in this volume highlight the quest for order in a nation gripped by violence and upheaval. Paine dedicated himself to reforming and enforcing the laws.
Adams Papers Editorial Project
The Adams Papers project was founded in 1954 to prepare a comprehensive published edition of the manuscripts written and received by the family of John Adams of Quincy, Massachusetts.
Project History
The Adams Papers project was founded in 1954 to prepare a comprehensive published edition of the manuscripts written and received by the family of John Adams of Quincy, Massachusetts. The Adams Family Papers manuscript collection at the Massachusetts Historical Society forms the nucleus of the project. In addition, the editors have gathered over 27,000 copies of Adams items from hundreds of libraries, institutions, and individuals in the United States and abroad. The project’s cut-off date is 1889, the year Abigail Brooks Adams died.
Massachusetts Historical Review
Available in print or digital format, the Massachusetts Historical Review (MHR) publishes essays, photo-essays, historical documents, and review articles each autumn. Every issue offers pieces rich in narrative grace and thoughtful analysis, prepared for all readers interested in the history of the Commonwealth, from its settlement to the 21st century. Learn more.
MHS Miscellany
The Society's newsletter, the Miscellany, contains announcements about the Society, its programs, recent acquisitions, grants and awards, and other activities. Find out more.