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NEWBURYPORT’S AGE OF SAIL

Moseley Gallery

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Thurs-Sat: 10-5, Sun: 12-5

Newburyport Marine Society, the Dreadnought & More

Curator Kevin’s Video Tour

Curator Kevin's Video Tour

Curator Kevin Says: The Moseley Gallery is our largest gallery, providing many highlights of what made Newburyport a rich maritime town. This includes the Newburyport Marine Society and cutting-edge ships like the Dreadnought.

Gallery Highlights

Newburyport Marine Society

Curator Kevin calls this dedication to the Newburyport Marine Society as “one of the greatest things in our collection.” Founded in 1772, the society acted as group insurance and shared navigation information with each other.

Dreadnought Ship Model

Built in Newburyport, Dreadnought was a clipper ship designed specifically to maximize its speed and cargo capacity. In 1857, Captain Samuel Samuels was able to set a speed record when traveling between New York and Liverpool—it took him just 13 days and 9 hours compared to the standard 19 days.

What Will You Learn?

The Moseley Gallery features the 19th century and the heyday of the clipper ship. Donald McKay introduced the new hull that would bring these sailing vessels to speeds not known before. They also provided the capacity to extend commercial trade from the east coast into the Pacific.

Not only were these ships practical, but they were also beautiful. Their classic lines and rigging under full sail were truly works of art. Each model and painting of these famous vessels has its own story to tell.

One of the most famous ships built in Newburyport was the Dreadnought. Additionally, the last clipper ship built in Massachusetts was the Mary Cushing in 1893.

The golden age of sail came to an end with the industrial revolution beginning in the mid 1800s and extending into the 1900s. Giant steam-powered vessels could be built to carry more cargo and travel in more direct lines—no longer dependent on the current and winds.

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View Additional Custom House Galleries

Coast Guard Gallery

This gallery shows off many aspects of the U.S. Coast Guard. Founded in 1791 as the United States Revenue Service in Newburyport, the Coast Guard got its name change from President Woodrow Wilson in 1915.

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Collector of Customs Gallery

The Collector of Customs Gallery talks about what our museum building was used for. Ship captains coming to or from other parts of the globe would need to stop at the Customs House and pay taxes on the goods being imported or exported.

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Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

  • Museum Hours

Thurs-Sat: 10AM-5PM
Sun: 12PM-5PM

  • Tickets
Through December 31st, admission has been reduced to $0 thanks to the support of our generous sponsors.
  • Parking

City parking is available adjacent to the museum. View parking lot directions.

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