Open Archives 2026

This free annual event, hosted by the Cambridge Historical Commission, invites you to explore the rich history of our city with the help of archivists from multiple repositories across the city.

What's on the Itinerary?

Family Fun: We’ve got scavenger hunts with prizes and unique crafting opportunities. With activities and engaging exhibits for Cantabrigians of all ages, it’s a day of fun for the whole family.

Meet the Archivists: Chat with the passionate archivists and historians who keep our city’s history alive. They’ll be on hand to answer questions, share stories, and give you a peek behind the archival curtain. This year's event features a lineup of Cambridge's major archives:

• Arthur and Elizabeth Schlesinger Library
• Cambridge Black History Project
• City Clerk's Office
• Harvard Art Museums Archives
• Cambridge Historical Commission
• History Cambridge
• Lesley University Archives
• Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site
• MIT Libraries' Distinctive Collections
• Mt. Auburn Cemetery.

Mark your calendars, pack a picnic, and let’s make history together!
For more details, follow the Instagram hashtag #CambridgeOpenArchives and check out our Instagram account @cambridgehistoricalcommission or contact histcomm@cambridgema.gov. with questions.

Cambridge Open Archives, is an annual free event that offers members of the public the rare chance to interact with a number of unique archives and collecting agencies across Cambridge. Cambridge Open Archives is organized by the Cambridge Historical Commission. 

What are archives?
Here's a good description. 

What kinds of things will I see at Open Archives this?
This varies from place to place. Most archives set up displays of special collections materials - photographs, correspondence, documents, maps, art, and more - while archives staff are on hand to tell stories and answer questions.

In previous years, participating institutions have planned their tours and collection displays around a special theme. Past Open Archives themes have included Archives Road Trip, Adventures in Gastronomy, Cambridge in the 1860s, Spaces: Profane and Sacred, Living and Dying in Cambridge, and New Acquisitions & Old Treasures, and Politics and Activism. Whatever each institution decides to display, you are guaranteed to see a wonderful variety of unique materials.

Does Open Archives cost anything?
Open Archives is completely free and no registration is needed this year!  

Anything else I should know?
Be sure to follow the Instagram hashtag #CambridgeOpenArchives and check out our Instagram account @cambridgehistoricalcommission for more info. Different participating archives post each day of Open Archives week, so keep checking the app for updates and new posts! 

Add likes, comments or questions on the posts so we know what you think!