Home to the Groton History Center, Boutwell House was built in 1851 for George S. Boutwell (1818–1905), then Governor of Massachusetts. He and his family were the sole occupants of the house and when his daughter Georgianna passed away in 1933, she left it to the Groton Historical Society. Having undergone extensive repairs in 2010, Boutwell House currently displays period furniture and decorative arts, and showcases special exhibits in the rotating exhibit gallery.

The Groton Historical Society adopted the name Groton History Center in 2016 to better reflect its role as a welcoming historical and cultural organization. Publishing a quarterly newsletter for members, the center host historical programs which are open to the public and cover a wide range of topics relating to Groton’s history. Staff and volunteers assist genealogical researchers and offers educational tours of the house museum.