Since 1863

Brooklyn Historical Society makes the vibrant history of Brooklyn tangible, meaningful, and relevant today.

Today's Open Hours

  • BHS DUMBO Closed
  • BHS Pierrepont Closed
  • BHS Pierrepont Gift Shop 5 pm - 10 pm
  • Othmer Library Closed
Plan Your Visit
What's On
This Month

Join BHS for public programs in observance of Black History Month

Join us this February as Brooklyn Historical Society examines issues impacting African American and diasporic communities nationwide. We will be discussing efforts to heal from historical trauma on Feb. 18, the search for justice for victims of racist violence on Feb. 19, and implicit bias in the workplace on Feb. 26, all while celebrating a long history of contributions, creations, struggles and triumphs. Visit our Upcoming Programs page to learn more.

Learn More
Explore Online

Blog posts, current projects, and more

Peruse our popular Photo of the Week blog posts, immerse yourself in an online exhibition on Brooklyn's past and present, and discover our extensive teacher resources.

Photos of the Week

Williamsburg families

Research Guides

African-American History

Blog

The Recap: Gentrification 2.0

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Projects

Muslims in Brooklyn

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The stunning reading room in the Othmer Library, a rare interior historical landmark.
Be
Historical

Welcome researchers

The Othmer Library Reading Room is located at 128 Pierrepont Street on the second floor. It is open to the public from 1-5pm, Wednesday through Saturday.