This summer, Mystic Seaport Museum invites visitors to experience the “Summer of the Morgan,” a season-long celebration of America’s maritime heritage centered around the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world. The celebration launches Memorial Day Weekend, as the entire campus comes alive with engaging events, special programming, new storytelling on board the ship and across the recreated 19th-century Seaport Village, and activities for all ages to enjoy!
Preparations began in March with the downrigging of the Morgan before being hauled ashore at the Museum’s Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard for a classic “shave and a haircut.” Re-launching is anticipated to take place on April 28, pending weather and tide. Visitors are invited to witness the vessel’s return to Chubb’s Wharf and watch our skilled shipwrights complete their work.
By mid-May, the vessel will be back in place on Chubb’s Wharf offering visitors an array of fresh experiences and activities on board the Morgan and throughout the Seaport Village all summer long. Activities include:
- a new walking tour that connects the story of the Morgan to the historic Seaport Village, providing visitors the unique opportunity to explore the ship’s hold, normally closed to the public
- special on-board activities and new storytelling delivered by our talented interpreters and volunteers
- a scavenger hunt and activity handout for kids and families
- a “selfie station” photo opportunity with the Morgan as the backdrop for easy sharing across socials
- the Morgan’s 184th birthday celebration July 19–20, featuring live music, expert talks, special shows in the Museum’s Treworgy Planetarium, and of course there will be cake!
- the annual 24-hour reading of Moby-Dick onboard the Morgan July 31–August 1
- and more throughout the summer!
Memorial Day weekend will also mark the opening of our latest exhibition Monstrous: Whaling and Its Colossal Impact, in the Collins Gallery on May 24. This exhibition will explore whaling and its impact on our region and nation, and will consist almost entirely of artifacts, documents, and photographs from the Mystic Seaport Museum Curatorial and Library Collections. The gallery will pair a monumental mural, aptly titled Or, The Whale, created by artist John Joseph “Jos” Sances.
With a dynamic lineup of events, exhibitions, and hands-on experiences, there are countless reasons to return again and again. Museum membership offers the best way to enjoy everything the season has to offer—providing unlimited admission all year long. Discover your sea story at Mystic Seaport Museum during the Summer of the Morgan!
Watch our website and socials for the latest information and event updates over the course of the season.