The building that houses the museum had housed a primary school and then the town library.  In November 1971, at the time the current Jamestown Philomenian Library was built on North Road, the Town Council agreed to rent the 85-year-old building to the Jamestown Historical Society.  The historical society had been looking for a facility to use as a museum almost since its founding in 1912. 

The members renovated and reorganized the interior in time for the first exhibit in 1973.  The Ferry Room was established that first year and has been a permanent part of the museum ever since although it has been moved and updated from time to time.