Founded in 1941, The Thoreau Society, Inc. is the largest and oldest organization devoted to an American author, existing to stimulate interest in and foster education about Henry David Thoreau’s life, works, legacy and his place in his world and in ours, challenging all to live a deliberate, considered life.

The Thoreau Society keeps Thoreau’s writings and ideas alive around the globe and across generations. It encourages research on Thoreau’s life and works; is a repository for Thoreau-related materials; educates the public about Thoreau’s ideas and their application to contemporary life; works to preserve Thoreau’s legacy and advocates for the preservation of Thoreau country.

With members from more than twenty countries around the world, the Penobscot Nation, and all fifty U.S. states the organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, and welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, gender expressions and identities, origins, physical abilities, races, religions, and sexual orientations.