The museum was established in
1929 as the "Marine Historical Association". Its first fame came with the acquisition of the
Charles W. Morgan in
1941, the only surviving wooden sailing
whaler. The seaport now sees about 400,000 visitors each year. In addition, it supports research via an extensive library, runs a graduate-level academic program, and, in conjunction with
Williams College, an undergraduate program in
maritime studies. Several of the vessels are the unique survivors of their type in the world. The collection includes:
The buildings of the museum include nearly all the types of general and specialized trades associated with building and operating a sailing fleet. They include a
chandlery,
sail loft,
ropewalk,
cooperage, and others. Each building is used both to show the activity for which it was used, and multiple display examples of the objects sold or constructed; for instance the
nautical instruments shop displays
sextants and the like. Additional buildings house more exhibits. One intriguing exhibit is a 1/128th scale model of the entire Mystic River area ca. 1870, complete down to the
outhouse behind every residence; a modelling
tour de force over 50 ft (15 m) long.
Reference
External link