As snow begins to fall across Washington County and holiday lights glow along Main Street, it feels natural to look back. Back to when life moved slower, craftsmanship mattered, and neighbors gathered by firelight to share stories.
The Cambridge Museum, operated by the Cambridge Historical Society, offers exactly that: a chance to step into the Victorian Age. Throughout the year, this special site welcomes visitors to experience what daily life in rural upstate New York looked like more than a century ago.
So, let’s explore all the Cambridge Historical Society and Museum have to offer!
A Look into 19th Century Living
Located in the heart of the village near the historic Cambridge Depot, the Cambridge Museum preserves the tools, clothing, and household items that tell the story of local families from more than a century ago.
Exhibits such as handcrafted quilts, farm equipment, china, and period clothing bring to life the way people lived, worked, and built their homes and community. Each display connects visitors to the people who helped shape Cambridge and Washington County into what they are today.
The Heart of the Home
One of the Cambridge Museum’s biggest highlights is its restored Victorian parlor and kitchen. This special exhibit gives visitors a direct look into domestic life during that time. Between the cast iron stove, the polished wood furniture, and all of the handmade household items, the space truly reflects the daily routines, creativity, and resourcefulness of rural families.
It’s important to recognize and highlight how much of that creative and resourceful spirit remains part of the community today, as it is a valuable part of Washington County’s heritage!
The Cambridge Museum: Powered by Community Spirit
Day in and day out, the Cambridge Museum is cared for by volunteers who are dedicated to preserving local history. Their work keeps the museum active and accessible, reflecting the same values that have long defined the area: hard work, hospitality, and community pride.
That sense of care is what makes the museum more than just a collection; it’s a community effort to keep local history alive! They also invite locals and visitors to join them for special events, such as their ongoing Community Weaving Project: Following the Thread. This series showcased the hard work of fiber artists throughout history, inviting guests to try their hand at weaving on the museum’s historic loom. Of course, this is just one way the Cambridge Museum seamlessly threads together this area’s rich history with our modern community!
Seasonal Hours and Victorian Christmas
Each year, the Cambridge Museum opens seasonally June 1 through November 1, welcoming visitors during the warmer months of the year.
Then in December, the Cambridge Historical Society and Museum hosts its annual Victorian Christmas celebration, a cherished local tradition that brings history to life. The museum is decorated in a classic 19th-century style, offering a glimpse into how families once celebrated the holidays more than a hundred years ago. This includes paper decor, tabletop Christmas trees, boughs of evergreen and holly, tinsel and more!
Visitors can enjoy homemade Victorian-inspired treats, decorate gingerbread people, and create a keepsake craft to take home after joining the carolers as they fill the museum with holiday classics. The event brings the village together and adds an extra layer of history and charm to the season.Â
Explore the Neighborhood’s Victorian Heritage
Did you know? Cambridge, New York is known far and wide for both its historic buildings and genuine small-town character. Just a short walk from the museum, you’ll also find Hubbard Hall, a restored Victorian-era opera house that continues to host performances and community events throughout the year. Nearby, Canteen Coffee Co. offers a cozy spot to relax, located inside the same historic building. In addition, the same block is also home to Battenkill Books (recently nominated one of the top bookstores in the nation!) as well as Valley Artisans Market, where you’ll find a wide range of locally-crafted goods from local artists, from paintings and pottery to accessories and woven baskets.
Also nearby is Varak Park on West Main Street, the former home of the Rice Seed Company. Its restored Victorian Buildings now serve as a reminder of the village’s agricultural and industrial past while providing space for modern businesses and gatherings.
Additionally, each Sunday from 8 AM – 12 PM the King Bakery Donut Cart rolls out to sell their delicious donuts and fresh-baked pastries. Want to give these local delights a try? Be sure to arrive early, because they sell out fast!
Looking for more highlights in the Cambridge area? Check out more fun things to do during a day in the area, including shopping at Forget Me Not Consignments, a stop for cheesecake and a tour at New Skete Monsasteries, an outing at Ondawa Greens or a stroll through the Woodlands Cemetery!
Visit This Holiday Season
This winter, take a drive to Upstate NY to explore a community that values its history as much as its future. Visit the Cambridge Museum, walk through the village, and enjoy a small town where the past is still part of everyday life.Â
Here in Washington County, history isn’t just remembered! It’s shared and celebrated – together.
Want More Unique & Interesting Experiences to Explore?
Without a doubt, this is just the start of the many fun things to do in Washington County, NY! Other experiences of note include live music performances, dog-friendly activities, educational adventures, horseback riding, and more.
