History: The Penobscot Marine Museum is the oldest maritime museum in Maine. It was established in 1936 by the families of Searsport sea captains. The museum has grown from one small building to several buildings in downtown Searsport.
Collections and Highlights: The museum has an extensive photography collection with subjects from Searsport Sea Captains, Maine Sardine Council, Eastern Illustrating & Publishing Company, and Atlantic Fisherman. Well-known photographers include James Perkins, Ruth Montgomery, William Parse, M. Elmer Montgomery, Charles Coombs, Preston Williams, Harriet Hichborn, and more. The National Fisherman collection holds an entire pre-digital photo archive. The Kosti Ruohomaa Collection contains 45,000 images by the famous Maine photographer. The Maynard Bray Collection includes about 20,000 black and white negatives of Bray’s photographs. The collection is rounded out with regional watercraft, marine art, antique furniture, ship and boat models, navigational instruments, China trade items, scrimshaw, industrial artifacts, ship records, and genealogical records.
Exhibitions, Events & Programs: The museum hosts exhibitions throughout its open season. Examples of past exhibits include the Searsport District High School Science show, photography, maritime exhibits, Penobscot Bay artwork, and more. A listing of current, past, and permanent exhibits is available on the website. The museum offers lectures, workshops, and events year-round, both virtually and in person. Examples of programs include tatting, meteorologist speakers, arts and crafts, day camps for children, and more. Check the calendar for the latest listing of events.
Tours: Guided tours for the public are available. Check the website for tour times. Group tours of 10 or more are available on weekdays.
Season/Hours of Operation: Open Memorial Day through the third weekend in October. See the website for the most up-to-date hours. The Research Library and photo archives are open year-round by appointment.
Admission:
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (65+): $12
- Children 8-15: $10
- Children 7 and under: Free
- Families (2 adults and children under 18): $40
- Searsport/Stockton Springs Residents: Free
