Addison values the preservation of its community history. In 1973, the Village established the Addison Historical Commission, which consisted of nine volunteers appointed by the Village Board for three-year terms. One of the Commission's main responsibilities is collaborating with the Addison Historical Society, a nonprofit organization founded in 1974, to manage and maintain the Addison Historical Museum. Opening its doors on July 4, 1976, in the former Village Hall at 131 West Lake Street, the museum expanded in 1999 with the relocation of the historic 1892 Balzer House and 1932 Coach House to a property adjacent to the 1893 Century House, creating a larger museum campus. Funding is provided by both the Village, through its Community Relations Department, and the Historical Society. The Village and Historical Society work together to oversee museum operations, planning, and financial management.