The Society was chartered by the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1968 for the stated purpose of collecting and preserving the history of Franklin County, VA. To that end, it offers memberships to the general public to encourage interest in local history. It also operates a history museum and research library to provide public access to collected materials.

The museum offers exhibits; the society offers research library access and occasional educational and recreational events.

The Society operates the Franklin County Historical Museum. Originally constructed in 1910 as part of Andrew Carnegie's worldwide library construction program, the museum building's high ceilings and dark wood moldings create a period atmosphere for a collection of historic artifacts and information.

The museum offers exhibits and tours.

The "Old Jail" at 175 East King Street in Chambersburg, PA, is home to the Society. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, the Old Jail also houses a museum and genealogical library. The Society also owns and maintains the Brown's Mill School (a primary school in use from 1836–1921).

The society offers research library access, tours, and lectures; the museum offers exhibits and tours; the school offers access.

The Society maintains two historical museums. The Majors-Parchman House Museum, a restored 1883 Victorian cottage, retains its original outbuildings and displays an extensive artwork collection. The Franklin County Historical Museum, located in Mount Vernon's Old City Hall, presents exhibits on area history with additional natural history exhibits.

The museums offer exhibits and tours.