Down to the Sea in Ships

The Museum Cove at the Northport Public Library is proud to present “Down to the Sea in Ships,” a special exhibit from the Long Island Maritime Museum. Long Island’s history is firmly rooted in maritime life, including shipbuilding, sailing, fishing, and oyster harvesting. We welcome children to discover this unique way of life.

The Long Island Maritime Museum was founded in 1966 and is dedicated “to preserve Long Island’s rich maritime history and heritage for educational purposes.” Located on the West Sayville waterfront, the 14-acre site was formerly the Meadow Edge estate of Mrs. Florence Bourne Hard. The five historic buildings house various exhibits including local half models, Long Island shipwrecks, and a display of over 30 full-size boats of all types. Visitors can tour the boat basin where some of the Museum’s floating collection of boats are moored. The Maritime Museum also sponsors special events such as a Seafood Festival & Craft Show, a Halloween Boat Burning, art shows, and children’s art/science classes.

The Northport Library’s exhibit, “Down to the Sea in Ships,” will open in February and continue until June, 2006.

Saturday Family Voyage
(N) Saturday, March 4, 2:30 p.m.
Children in grades K-5 with parents; siblings welcome.
Visit the Museum Cove and then sail off to the Community Room to explore a variety of maritime related activities and snacks. Register February 11 at the Northport Library.

Museum Cove for Preschoolers
(N) Saturday, April 1st 10:00am
Children ages 3-5
Children will hear some seaworthy tales and create a nautical mobile to take home.
Registration begins March 18th.

Museum Cove Regatta
(N) Saturday, May 20th, 2:00pm
Children in grades K-2 with families
Children will build a model sized balsa wood catamaran and participate
in a regatta that will be held in the courtyard.
Registration begins May 6th.

What Floats Your Boat?
(N) Monday, May 8th, 4:00pm
Children in grades 3-5
An instructor from the Long Island Maritime Museum will discuss sailboats and their design. Children will then use clay to construct their own boat and test its seaworthiness.
Registration begins April 24th.

Past Exhibit Information