How do I update my kitchen table without losing the history?

is it antique and you are worried about losing the value? If so, understand that as soon as you do anything to the piece it will change the value. If that isn't your concern, could you clarify what you mean by updating and what history you would like to preserve

Take a lot of photos before you do any work. Try to do as many upgrades keeping the original design in mind - for example, if you like the color of your cabinets, use the same color scheme but use the most upgraded/updated materials. Do the same for the rest of the room. There are so many design options now that you can practically duplicate a room using brand new items.

http://www.vintagepaintandmore.com/2017/07/vintage-dining-room-makeover-cone-on.html

We bought a used Duncan Phyfe table at a garage sale when our children were young. (at least 45 years ago). We moved it many times. Now that we are retired, I figured, what have I got to lose? I left the beautiful curved legs, and painted the top a creamy taupe. I loved it so much, I did the same thing to a table I rescued from a yard. I painted the legs and lower shelf black and the top a creamy taupe. I donated it to my church for a reception room. Had many compliments.

If it's not in bad shape, have a piece of glass cut and put it on top. You can even paint the underside of the glass with gallery glass paint with a design.