The Boonton Historical Society and Museum was founded in 1959 by a group of business people and others who were interested in preserving and promoting Boonton's history, which dates to the mid-1700's. The original village of Boonton now lies under the Jersey City Reservoir. Today's Boonton began in about 1829 as a result of the construction of the Morris Canal and the development of the New Jersey Iron Company.

The Society's extensive collection of Boonton historical material is housed in the landmark John Taylor Building at 210 Main Street. This house, which combines elements of Colonial Revival and Victorian Gothic styles, was built in 1897-8 for use as a residence and office for Dr. John L. Taylor. His wife Adelaide had received the land as a gift from her father, the Hon. John L. Kanouse.

The Boonton Historical Society and Museum is a non-profit organization, incorporated in 1959, located in the town of Boonton, New Jersey. Its mission is to:

Preserve and protect the town of Boonton's unique cultural, architectural and industrial history;
Pserve and share the area's rich history, folklore, arts and humanities of the past and present;
Encourage preservation and restoration of historic landmarks in the town;
Potect and display the museum's collections; and
Provide educational programs, guided historical tours and exhibitions to a diverse population.