Museum Showcases Exciting New Exhibits and Family-Friendly Programs in Expanded Space NANTUCKET ISLAND, Mass., July 1
NANTUCKET ISLAND, Mass., July 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrating rescues and
heroism at sea, the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum is now open
following an extensive $3 million renovation. Drawing on its collection of
over 5,000 objects -- including period surfboats, beach carts, vintage
photographs, and more -- the museum features new exhibits and family-friendly
programs appealing to all ages.
Marshall, a friendly Newfoundland dog who was rescued by life-savers at
the island's Surfside Life-Saving Station in 1877, serves as the museum's
mascot. His real-life tale of animal rescue unfolds through captivating
displays designed for younger visitors.
Marshall's heroic rescue also has inspired a new children's book,
Marshall: A Nantucket Sea Rescue, by Whitney Stewart. The book is available at
the museum's gift shop at several price points, including a small book with
accompanying plush toy for $9.95.
On Sunday, July 6, 2008, the museum will host Family Fun Day from
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. as part of its grand re-opening celebration. Events will
include storytelling, a lightship basket weaving demonstration, hands-on
activities, and a book signing by Stewart. Admission is free.
Interestingly, Stewart's personal lifesaving adventure led her to
Nantucket. In August 2005, she was trapped in New Orleans during Hurricane
Katrina. After a helicopter evacuation, she lived on the island for five
months.
Located next to important shipping lanes when maritime travel was in its
heyday, Nantucket once saw hundreds of boats passing by each day -- all
navigating without the advantages of modern technology. Treacherous shoals and
inclement weather led to over 700 shipwrecks in the surrounding waters,
causing the area to be dubbed a "graveyard of the Atlantic."
An affiliate of the Egan Maritime Institute, the Nantucket Shipwreck &
Lifesaving Museum is located at 158 Polpis Road. The museum and gift shop will
be open through Columbus Day, October 13, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
daily. Admission is free to members, $5 for adults, $3 for children 5 - 18,
and free to children under 5, and includes admission to Egan Maritime
Institute exhibits at the historic Coffin School, located at 4 Winter Street
in Nantucket Town. For more information please call (508) 228-2505, or visit
online at www.nantucketshipwreck.org.
Contact: Lori Moretti / (617) 536-3400
CM Communications
lmoretti@cmcommunications.com
SOURCE Egan Maritime Institute
