About Us
Our Story
The Smith County Historical Society, founded in 1959, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Smith County, Texas. It is housed in Tyler’s historic Carnegie Public Library, a 1904 landmark built with funds from Andrew Carnegie and listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. When Tyler’s new public library opened in 1980, the original Carnegie building was leased to the society, renovated, and reopened as a history center in 1984.
Today, the society operates a free museum and archives at 125 S. College Avenue, featuring extensive research collections that include rare books, maps, newspapers, manuscripts and photographs.
Our Mission
The Smith County Historical Society, established in 1959 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit under Texas law, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Smith County, Texas. Its mission includes discovering, collecting, and safeguarding historical data, records, and artifacts related to the county's past. The Society provides public education through accessible archives, research resources, and educational programming. It operates its own museum and collaborates with others to ensure the preservation of historical items.
Additionally, the Society publishes the Chronicles of Smith County, Texas, along with other materials deemed valuable for historical documentation. Regular meetings and public programs are held to engage the community in local history, and the organization actively seeks financial and material support to sustain its efforts. Through these initiatives, the Society works to fulfill its mission of preserving Smith County’s heritage for future generations.
Our Museum
Located in the front rooms of the historic 1904 Carnegie Library—one of Smith County’s treasured landmarks—the Smith County Historical Society Museum offers a unique setting for exploring local history. The building’s historic character complements permanent displays and rotating exhibits featuring photographs, documents, artifacts, and memorabilia that highlight the people, places, and events that shaped Smith County.
Visit the Events section under About Us for upcoming exhibits.
Admission is FREE!
Our Archives
Research Hours:
Tuesday – Friday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (By Appointment Only)
We are a public archives dedicated exclusively to the history of Smith County, Texas. If your research involves events, places, people, or buildings outside of Smith County, we’ll gladly help connect you with the appropriate organization or resources.
Planning Your Visit:
To ensure the best experience: Call or email ahead to schedule your appointment.
Our staff will reserve your research space and retrieve materials relevant to your topic in advance.
