The Pennsylvania Federation of Museums and Historical Organizations was incorporated in 1907 as the Pennsylvania Federation of Historical Societies. Among its earliest activities was promoting the creation of the Pennsylvania Historical Commission, a state agency. During the first thirty years of its existence, the Federation remained a loose association of interested historical societies, promoting the study and dissemination of Pennsylvania history. In the late 1930s an agreement was reached between the Federation and the Commission, which provided headquarters for the Federation in Harrisburg. Under this agreement, the Executive Director of the Commission also served as the Federation's Executive Secretary, while Commission staff took part in the Federation's day-to-day operations.

The Federations' goals are to support, sustain, invigorate and expand the important role that museum and historical organizations play in their communities and throughout the Commonwealth. The Federation has established a framework for working together by initiating partnerships and alliances with its members, state agencies, national and regional museum and heritage organizations, and other groups. It has taken a leadership role in challenging museums to establish their case for support and to position themselves for fundraising commensurate with their contribution to the economic and cultural development of the Commonwealth.

Unsurpassed in serving our membership, the Pennsylvania Federation of Museums and Historical Organizations represents the interests of the over 1,000 museums and related organizations throughout the Commonwealth. As their principal advocate, the Federation increases public awareness of the essential roles of museums to enhance the quality of life for Pennsylvania residents and to attract visitors.

PFMHO has a quarterly newsletter "Tapestry."