A Step Back in Time: The Enchanting Maritime Village

As a museum curator with a passion for interactive exhibits, I was thrilled to explore the Mystic Seaport Museum in Stonington. This maritime museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in a 19th-century seafaring village. The moment I set foot on the museum grounds, I was transported to an era where tall ships ruled the seas and maritime adventures were the order of the day.

The museum’s comprehensive COVID-19 protocols ensured a safe environment for all visitors, allowing families, couples, and friends to enjoy the experience without worry. Masks and social distancing were required, and facilities were frequently sanitized. This attention to safety allowed me to fully immerse myself in the rich history and culture of the maritime world.

One of the highlights of my visit was the narrated cruise on the Mystic River aboard the WWII Navy launch, “Liberty.” This 25-minute journey provided a fascinating glimpse into the maritime history of the area, and I highly recommend securing a time slot early, as capacity is limited. The cruise was a delightful way to start my exploration of the museum, setting the stage for the many adventures that awaited.

Exploring the Historic Ships

The Mystic Seaport Museum is home to three historic ships, each with its own unique story to tell. The Charles W. Morgan, an 1841 whaling ship, is the last of its kind and a true “crown jewel” of the museum’s collection. Climbing aboard this magnificent vessel, I was struck by the craftsmanship and dedication of the shipwrights who have preserved it for future generations.

The Joseph Conrad, an 1882 training ship, and the L.A. Dunton, a 20th-century New England fishing ship, were equally captivating. Each ship offered a glimpse into the lives of the men and women who sailed them, and I found myself lost in the stories of adventure and exploration that these vessels embodied.

In addition to the ships, the Thompson Exhibition Building featured an exhibit titled “A Way with Wood,” where shipwrights and wood carvers demonstrated the art of boat building. This hands-on experience was a perfect fit for my interest in interactive exhibits, and I was fascinated by the skill and precision required to create these beautiful wooden vessels.

Family-Friendly Fun and Learning

The Mystic Seaport Museum is not only a treasure trove of maritime history but also a haven for family-friendly activities. The Discovery Barn offers outdoor activities for children, featuring 19th-century games that are sanitized after each use. My children were delighted by the opportunity to engage in these historical games, and I appreciated the museum’s commitment to providing a safe and educational environment for young visitors.

The Boat House offered free use of wood rowboats, sailboats, and a paddle boat, allowing families to enjoy the water without time limits. For a nominal fee, we also took a catboat ride on the “Breck Marshall,” which was a highlight of our visit.

One of the most impactful experiences was the discussion led by Adwoa Bandele-Asante, a Discovery Amistad docent, about the 1839 mutiny and escape to freedom of 43 captured slaves aboard the Amistad Slave Ship. This comprehensive discussion was both educational and moving, providing a deeper understanding of this significant historical event.

As we strolled through the Circa 1870’s Maritime Village, camera in hand, we marveled at the classic architecture of the historic buildings and the beautiful landscaping. The museum’s dedication to preserving and sharing maritime history made our visit both enriching and enjoyable, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring the past while creating lasting memories with their family.