Journey back to a time when Savannah’s lifeline was the sea. Right here, at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, we uncover tales of daring sailors and bustling ports. This museum is not just a collection of artifacts. It is a portal into Savannah’s soul.
Founded in 1966, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum stands as a testament to Savannah’s enduring connection to the water. Housed within the walls of the magnificent Scarbrough House, built in 1819, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the past. William Scarbrough, a prominent sea merchant, once resided here. His home reflects the wealth that maritime trade brought to Savannah.
Inside the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, discover a remarkable collection of ship models. These models include The City of Savannah, The Anne, The Steamship Savannah, The Wanderer, and even The Titanic. Almost all these ships, except The Titanic, share a direct connection to Savannah and the Georgia coast.
Imagine the City of Savannah, a 245-foot iron-hulled hybrid ship. It sailed between Savannah, Boston, and New York. The Anne brought the first English settlers to Savannah in 1733. Picture the Steamship Savannah, the first vessel to cross the Atlantic using steam engines. President James Monroe himself inspected this ship in Savannah. Think about The Wanderer. It was a swift ship retrofitted to carry cargo and slaves from Africa to the Georgia coast in 1859. Lastly, marvel at the model of The Titanic, a reminder of the infamous unsinkable ship.
Beyond the Scarbrough House, discover the most extensive private gardens in Savannah’s historic district. These gardens offer a serene escape. They provide a tranquil backdrop for reflection.
The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum plays a vital role. It preserves and shares Savannah’s foundational stories. Savannah’s port is the third-busiest gateway in the nation. Only New York and Los Angeles surpass it.
The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum illuminates the importance of Savannah’s maritime connections. It shares stories of merchants who built fortunes and brave sailors. The museum brings history to life. It allows visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and stories of Savannah’s maritime past.
So, as you leave the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, remember the impact that the sea had on Savannah. The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a reminder of a time when maritime trade shaped the city’s identity.