Reference > Historical Collection

In addition to hundreds of books about life in Lexington during the Colonial and Revolutionary periods, Cary Memorial Library has a substantial collection of materials on the history of Lexington up to the present day. These materials are found in the Lexington Collection and the Edwin B. Worthen Collection, described below.

The Lexington Collection

Materials in the Lexington Collection include published histories, Town reports, planning and zoning studies, Lexington High School yearbooks, family histories, newspapers, vital records, voting lists, street directories and vertical file materials, as well as histories of surrounding towns.

Local history materials may be found by searching the Minuteman Library Network’s catalog. Specific items are located in our circulating, reference and/or special collections. If you need assistance finding what you need, please ask a librarian. Browse through a detailed listing of local history materials and resources.

The Edwin B. Worthen Collection

Donated to Cary Library in 1976, the Edwin B. Worthen Collection documents life in Lexington from the early 19th to the mid-20th centuries.

In addition to approximately 500 books, which may be searched in the Minuteman Library Network’s catalog, the Worthen Collection includes manuscripts, pamphlets, photographs, lantern slides, scrapbooks, maps, drawings, sketches, correspondence, research notes, vertical file materials and memorabilia. Subjects covered by the collection include Lexington’s people, properties, landmarks, businesses, organizations, schools, celebrations, and Town government.

To explore the Worthen Collection, visit the “Virtual Exhibit,” a searchable database of materials in the collection, or examine a detailed Finding Aid.

For more information, please contact the Reference Desk at 781-862-6288 ext. 250, or submit your question to Ask Us online.

• The Lexington Historical Society
• Town of Lexington Clerk and Archives
• Lexington Historical Commission
• National Heritage Museum