The Society was formed in 1894 by Herbert J. Harwood, George A. Sanderson, and Frank B. Priest and incorporated in 1896. Its purpose is to collect and preserve manuscripts, printed books, pamphlets, historical facts and relics, biographical anecdotes, and to stimulate research in local history.

The first home of the Society was at 333 King Street when Miss Marion Fitch gifted her home to be used as a museum. Later in 1991, the Town of Littleton leased the Houghton Memorial Building to the Society.