Since its inception, one of the central objectives of the PAHS has been to promote the study, knowledge and preservation of the history of the Placentia Area. They are successful in this mission through several avenues, namely the O'Reilly House Museum.
Built in 1902, The O'Reilly House is a balustrade Queen Anne Victorian style structure and has been restored to its original state of grandeur. Originally called Brefery House, this structure was constructed by J.W. Ellis for the William O'Reilly family. It showcases royal relics, period artifacts, and exhibits. A Basque headstone and copy of the oldest original civil document from Canada can be viewed at the museum.