The idea for the creation of a historical museum in Orange County was formed when artifacts were displayed in Orange County's Old Courthouse during the 1952 Bicentennial celebrations. The project was championed by the Hillsborough Garden Club.  Under the leadership of Mrs. Clarence Jones, members of the Garden Club worked tirelessly to find financial support, a location, and volunteers to run the Museum.  To create the collection, local families donated domestic goods, military relics, costumes, and furniture from their homes.  The Orange County Commissioners approved the use of the second floor of the 1845 Courthouse and appropriated $250 toward the Museum, and in November of 1957 the Museum opened its doors with the Garden Club as its sponsoring organization.  In 1983, the Museum moved to its current location.