Believing that a sense of history is fundamental to understanding human experience, the Winchester Historical Society presents educational programs and exhibits, as well as collects, preserves, and shares materials on Winchester's ever developing history so that present and future generations can understand more fully their predecessors, their community, and themselves.

In fulfilling this purpose the Society has stewardship of the historic Sanborn House that contains the Sanborn House Historical and Cultural Center as well as being the home of the Winchester Historical Society, Inc.

The Winchester Historical Society is a volunteer organization of over 300 members working to promote an awareness of Winchester's rich history and culture. Founded in 1933 as successor to the Winchester Historical and Genealogical Society which flourished from 1884 to 1898, the Society is one of the oldest historical organizations in New England. It is incorporated as 501 (c) 3 nonprofit and contributions are tax deductible.