Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah, Georgia
Imagine stepping back in time to when big ships ruled the seas. That’s what you’ll feel like at this museum. It’s in a beautiful old house called the William Scarbrough House, built way back in 1819. The house itself is like a time machine, showing us how people lived 200 years ago.
Inside the museum, you’ll find amazing things that tell stories about ships and the sea:
- Ship Models: Tiny versions of famous ships that look just like the real ones.
- Paintings: Pictures of the ocean and ships that make you feel like you’re there.
- Sea Treasures: Old things from ships that sailors used long ago.
One of the coolest things you’ll learn about is the Steamship Savannah. It was a big deal because it was one of the first ships to use steam to cross the ocean.
Scarbrough House and Gardens
The museum is in a house that’s special all by itself. It has fancy stairs when you walk in, and the ceilings and walls are decorated in ways that will make your eyes wide.
Outside, there’s a garden that’s like something from a fairy tale. It has:
- Brick paths to walk on
- Pretty flowers and trees
- A fountain that sprays water
- Cool gates made of iron
People even have weddings here because it’s so pretty!
This museum helps us remember how important ships were (and still are) to our world. Before planes and cars, ships were how people traveled far away and how goods were sent from one place to another. The museum shows us this history in a fun way.
Exhibits and Collections
The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah offers a variety of exhibits that fascinate history lovers and curious travelers. Here, you’ll find meticulously crafted ship models, maritime artifacts, and engaging educational programs. Some highlights include the pioneering Steamship Savannah and the preservation efforts of the Historic Savannah Foundation.
Popular Exhibits
- Titanic Exhibit: This exhibit features a detailed model of the RMS Titanic, along with artifacts and personal stories related to the tragic event. It provides an in-depth look at the ship’s history, construction, and eventual sinking.
- Savannah Ships: Explore models of ships with strong connections to Savannah. This includes the SS Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic, and the CSS Georgia, an ironclad warship from the Civil War.
- Evolution of Shipbuilding: Learn about the development of shipbuilding techniques and materials, from ancient wooden vessels to modern steel ships. This exhibit highlights technological advancements that have shaped the maritime industry. There are also online exhibits for those who cannot visit in person.
Unique Collections and Artifacts
- Nautical Instruments: Discover a fascinating collection of navigational tools like sextants, compasses, and chronometers, essential for sailors navigating the seas.
- Maritime Art: The museum houses a diverse collection of maritime art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative items that capture the beauty and power of the sea.
- Ship Figureheads: Admire the collection of wooden figureheads that once adorned the bows of sailing ships. These intricately carved works of art were not only decorative but also believed to protect the ship and its crew.
Hours of Operation and Admission Fees
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
General admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+), active military, and AAA members, and $6 for children ages 6-17. Children 5 and under can visit for free.
For the most up-to-date information on exhibits, events, and other visitor details, it is recommended to visit the museum’s official website. The website offers a wealth of information about the museum, including a virtual tour, educational resources, and an online gift shop.
How to Get to Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum?
To get to the museum, located at 41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, you have several options depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation:
- By Car: To get there, simply input the museum’s address into your preferred GPS device or navigation app, and follow the provided directions. Savannah’s grid-like layout and well-marked streets make it relatively easy to navigate by car.
- By Foot or Bike: If you’re staying in the historic downtown Savannah area, the museum is within walking or biking distance from many popular attractions and hotels. Savannah is a pedestrian-friendly city with numerous squares and parks, making it enjoyable to explore on foot or by bicycle.
- By Trolley or Tour: Several trolley and tour companies operate in Savannah, offering hop-on-hop-off services that include stops near here. This can be a convenient and enjoyable way to visit multiple attractions throughout the city.
Parking: Limited on-site parking is available at the museum. If it’s full, you can find street parking nearby or use public parking garages within walking distance.
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Conclusion
As our exploration of the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum concludes, we leave with a deeper appreciation of maritime heritage and the timeless stories of the sea. This hidden gem in Savannah, GA, is not just a collection of artifacts; it’s a gateway to understanding the profound impact of maritime history on our world.
