Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum - Sag Harbor, NY - Sag Harbor History

The Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum is located at 200 Main Street in Sag Harbor, NY. The village was settled in the early 1700s and quickly became a major sea port with international ships docking there. The whaling industry developed quickly. One of the major industries was whale oil made from the blubber of whales. The village is even mentioned in the famous literary work Moby Dick.

The building the Museum occupies was built in 1845 by Benjamin Huntting, a prominent owner of whaling industry ships. Huntting hired architect Minard LaFever who specialized in Greek Revival architecture. The Corinthian columns of the structure represent that tradition. In 1945, the building was given to historical society for use as a museum.

The Museum has a permanent collection of artifacts and documents related to the whaling industry and related culture of the Whaling Era. One of the more popular displays includes the items from the whaling voyages like spears, shields, and paddles. There are four galleries which display various materials related to the Whaling Era. The harpoon rooms and the parlors contain main other items from the 19th century including household items and portraits. The Orientation Gallery serves as an historical overview to the industry and time-period to introduce the Museum's collection to visitors.

In 2003, the Museum began a new gallery that would display annual exhibits related to the maritime industry. In 2005, the Museum hosted the Island Kings, Whalers & Beach Boys exhibit which suggested that Pacific whaling influenced surfing. In 2009, the summer exhibit was on oil. The exhibit examined the history of oil (both petroleum and whale oil) and offered considerations on future uses of oil products including renewable sources.

Each year the Museum hosts an Old-Fashioned Lobster Bake. All proceeds benefit the Museum and tickets can be pre-purchased. In 2010, the Museum will celebrate its 15th annual bake. This fundraising bake offers a variety of seafood for patrons to enjoy.

In the center of the building, underneath the staircase, is the gift shop. The Museum shop sells t-shirts, replica materials, books, and fine art related to the Whaling Era.

The Museum seeks both members and volunteers for continual support. Memberships allow members free admission into the Museum, a 10% discount in the store, and a newsletter. For students, membership is $15. For individuals the membership is $35 and for businesses the membership is $250. A lifetime membership is available for $1,000. Museum volunteers work in the gift shop as well as providing tours to groups.

The Museum is open daily from May through October from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 1pm to 5pm on Sundays. School groups are welcome and tours are available for groups of ten or more by appointment by calling 631-725-0770. Admission to the Museum is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and $1 for children. Hours of operation and admission fees are subject to change at any time. It is recommended that anyone interested in visiting the museum call ahead to verify pricing and hours information.