Established in 1983, Chautauqua Historical Society is an Illinois non-profit corporation and is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt educational and charitable organization.

Chautauqua Historical Society sponsors numerous programs and activities throughout the season and publishes a Newsletter two or three times each year.

Chautauqua Historical Society operates the Archival Research Center at the Kentucky Home which collects, preserves, and researches historic documents, photos, and oral histories of New Piasa Chautauqua. Rotating exhibits are researched and displayed throughout the season.

All members and friends of New Piasa Chautauqua are encouraged to become members of the Society. Your support makes it possible for us to preserve the amazing and ongoing history of our valley.

The mission and purpose of the Chautauqua Historical Society is the preservation and enhancement of the historic traditions and culture of New Piasa Chautauqua, Chautauqua, Illinois, the encouragement of historical research on the Chautauqua community and nearby historic districts, the publication of historical brochures, pamphlets, and other written material on New Piasa Chautauqua, remaining permanent assemblies and Chautauquas in other parts of the United States and the national Chautauqua movement, and the establishment of an educational program to inform the Chautauqua community and the general public of the historical and educational value of New Piasa Chautauqua.  — The Western Chautauqua