One familiar with Portsmouth, Rhode Island may know that the town was founded on the Compact of 1638, the first document of its kind establishing a form of government separating church and state. The Battle of Rhode Island took place here on August 29, 1778.

Visitors will find exhibits throughout the main floor of the museum housed within the former Christian Union Church. Visitors will learn more about the formation of the town by outcasts from Massachusetts Bay Colony. Stone tools and other artifacts offer a glimpse of Aquidneck Island before European settlement.

Since its formation, and well into the 20th century, farming was the primary occupation for the residents of the town. An assortment of agricultural artifacts and housewares showcase the more utilitarian but all important aspect of life here in Portsmouth and are housed in the 1848 Town Hall.

The oldest building on the property-the Southermost School-was built in 1725 not far from where it now stands. Inside are some original student desks along with the top of the original teacher desk and a list of the rules that children had to follow.