Welcome to Portal1791, the automated request system at the Massachusetts Historical Society.

All researchers are required to create a Portal1791 account in order to request materials for use in the library or to order reproductions.

Your Portal1791 account allows you to request materials directly through our online catalog, ABIGAIL, and online collection guides. Using Portal1791 you can manage your requests 24 hours a day and plan ahead to make the most of your visit to the MHS library.

Please note that items in offsite storage must be requested at least two business days in advance of a planned visit.

Due to increased demand, it is recommended that all researchers who wish to visit the MHS library request an appointment using our appointment request form. Researchers with confirmed appointments will be guaranteed a spot in the library on their scheduled visit date(s). Walk-in researchers will be accommodated as space is available.

New to Portal1791?

Click here to view the library's access policy and create your account. For more information about Portal1791, please see the FAQ.

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