NANTUCKET MA: Winter on an island: No’theasters, wind-driven rains and blinding snow; nevertheless it is warm and inviting in our Whaling Museum. Come visit the place mentioned in National Geographic’s Smart Traveler section, “Off-season Nantucket; Start at the Whaling Museum to learn about the island’s history as the whaling capital of the world. Kids can view harpoons, make a sailors valentine from shells, and hear the tale of the ill-fated whaling ship Essex that inspired Herman Melville’s Moby Dick.”
The Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) Whaling Museum will reopen on Saturday, February 12 and will remain open every Saturday and Sunday through April 23, 11 A.M. – 4 P.M. The museum will also be open in celebration of Presidents Day, Monday, February 21, 11 A.M. – 4 P.M.
History comes to life in the Whaling Museum, from the Wampanoags to Quakerism, the adventure and intrigue of whaling, the Great Fire, the Nantucket Art Colony, and the rise of tourism. Brimming with stories and artifacts, the Museum features a forty-six-foot sperm-whale skeleton, restored candle factory, beautiful exhibition spaces, a world-class selection of scrimshaw, a fully rigged whaleboat, vast collections of whaling tools, the16-foot Fresnel lens from Sankaty lighthouse, and numerous portraits of whaling captains and their wives. A nonstop harbor view is available from the private rooftop observation deck. The Museum is wheelchair accessible.
Experience the exhilaration of a film showing the Nantucket sleigh ride, take part in entertaining interpretive talks, enjoy lively and informative movie shorts and engaging interactive programs. A diverse calendar of events, guided collection tours, children’s programs, and dynamic lectures enhance the Museum experience.
The museum is free for NHA members, $17 general admission, $15 for seniors, $10 youth, 6-17. Please call 508-228-1894, ext. 0, for further information.
