Current Exhibition & Events
The North Shore Historical Museum is pleased to present a vibrant lineup of end of summer and fall programs and events.
On Saturday, October 10 at 6:00 PM, celebrate America’s 250th birthday at our “Happy Birthday America – USA 250” Gala at the historic Braes Mansion, featuring a red, white, and blue evening of food, festivities, and a special lecture by Dr. Richard Harris—all in support of the Museum’s mission.
In honor of our nation’s semiquincentennial, we proudly present our latest exhibit, The Shot Heard Round the World through Sunday, November 22. This landmark exhibit explores the rich, complex, and ever‑changing story of Long Island’s North Shore from 1776 to 2026. Visitors will encounter artifacts, books with expanded text explaining the region’s Revolutionary War involvement, and a special section with photographs and a commemorative flag from Glen Cove’s 1976 Bicentennial celebration.
On Thursday, September 10 at 7:00 PM, Dr. Richard Harris presents Reluctant Revolutionaries: Rebellion in the Age of Reason, exploring the colonists who hesitated to break from Britain and how Enlightenment thinkers like Jefferson and Paine ultimately persuaded them toward independence.
On Tuesday, October 13 at 7:00 PM, discover the remarkable story of George Washington’s 1783 “Grand Tour” of Long Island. Eco‑Photo Explorers retrace the President’s journey—revealing the sites he visited, the people he thanked, and the locations now lost to time—bringing to life a chapter of Long Island history woven into the island’s cultural fabric.
On Thursday, October 22 at 7:00 PM, learn about The Forgotten Estates of Glen Cove. A fast‑paced, 90‑minute lecture by young local historian Jake Finamore, exploring more than 16 long‑lost Gold Coast estates through 50+ rare images and stories. From gilded mansions to the home of Long Island’s most famous 20th‑century dog, this talk uncovers a hidden side of Glen Cove’s past. Includes Q&A.
We look forward to welcoming you for a meaningful and engaging season at the Museum!
Our Home
The Museum is housed in the historic 1907 Justices Court Building in Glen Cove, a landmark listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places. Originally donated to the Museum by Sterling Glen of Glen Cove, the courthouse has been thoughtfully restored and now serves as an ideal permanent home for preserving and interpreting the history of Long Island’s North Shore.
Our Mission
The Museum preserves and interprets the history of Long Island’s North Shore — including the region once known as the Gold Coast — through responsible stewardship of its collections and historic 1907 Justices Court Building, and through exhibitions, lectures, and public programs that engage and educate the community.
Your support allows us to remain true to our mission to preserve yesterday for tomorrow
The Board of Trustees remains deeply committed to preserving the history of Long Island’s North Shore.
We advance this mission through educational programs, community lectures, and essential fundraising efforts. Each fall, our annual fundraiser culminates in a beautifully produced keepsake journal that celebrates our supporters and our work (click here).
Thanks to the generosity of our community, the restoration of our landmarked 1907 Justices Court Building is now complete. This includes the full installation of storm windows with UV‑protective glass — an upgrade that improves energy efficiency and provides critical protection for our collections.
Your continued support ensures that the Museum remains a vibrant, accessible resource for generations to come, safeguarding the stories and heritage of our region.
Membership gives you free year‑round admission and exclusive discounts on select events and programs, helping you stay connected to the history of the North Shore.