The Mission of the Neenah Historical Society is to collect and obtain information about the history of Neenah, compile and preserve it in a suitable and permanent form, and to share our history with interested persons. Promote interest in the history of Neenah and the local area; and to foster the preservation of an interest in buildings, sites, areas and artifacts of historic importance.

The Neenah Historical Society was formed in January 1948 at the home of Helen Kimberly Stuart. Today, we have two buildings dedicated to serving our mission. The Hiram Smith Octagon House houses the Historical Society's museum and archives. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of a handful of octagon houses in Wisconsin. The Ward House serves as the Society office, research library, and classroom.