Whaling History Maritime Museums

Long Island Has A Rich Maritime History

Dating back to the 1700s, settlers on Long Island made their livings and sometimes their fortunes from the bounty of the sea. Whaling and maritime heritage comes alive at area museum exhibits which include over 6,000 artifacts, a fully-equipped 19th century whale boat, scrimshaw artwork and more.

Long Island Maritime Museum

The Long Island Maritime Museum located in West Savyille showcases Long Island’s connection to the sea. The 14-acre site houses 5 historic buildings with interactive exhibits, artifacts and resources. The museum library includes over 3,000 maritime books and materials, the Bayman Cottage depicts a nineteenth-century nautical lifestyle and the Craft Building showcases a small craft vessel collection. For those seeking adventure out on the water, climb aboard Priscilla, the museum’s very own oyster sloop.

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The Whaling Museum & Education Center

Open year-round and located in Cold Spring Harbor, a 19th Century whaling port, The Whaling Museum & Education Center boasts an extensive collection of resources. Whaling holds premier significance to Long Island culture, being one of the first major industries in region and home to the start of many North American whaling companies. Discover over 6,000 artifacts and historic whaleboat, the only fully-equipped whaling vessel with original gear on display in New York.

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Long Island Traditions

Long Island Traditions is dedicated to documenting, presenting and preserving the maritime and cultural heritage of living tradition bearers, ranging from fishermen and baymen, bay house owners, to recent immigrants who carry on the traditions of their native homelands. Popular events include “Boating with the Baymen” “Bay House Tours” and ethnic music and dance performances at area cultural institutions.

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