A new exhibit exploring sailors’ sea chests opened this week at Maine Maritime Museum. “A Sailor’s Treasure: Sea Chests & Curiosities” will be on view through spring 2021.

Sea chests provided a secure place for sailors to store their personal belongings --- from everyday essentials to exotic curios --- and the contents of these chests could reveal a lot about a person. This exhibit examines the function and decoration of these chests and allows visitors to take a glimpse of the items that could be stored within.

A Sailor’s Treasure approaches sea chests through a new perspective, viewing them akin to a portable “cabinet of curiosities.” It examines the 19th century ritual of “sailor’s pleasure,” where sailors would empty their sea chests and share the contents—and stories—with fellow crewmembers, and explores sea chests’ lasting role in popular culture.

“Sea chests have special significance at Maine Maritime Museum because they were a collecting interest of Dr. Charles E. Burden, a founding member of the museum,” said Christopher Timm, chief curator. “I particularly look forward to sharing with our visitors some of the mementos and souvenirs that mariners brought with them and collected while abroad. It gives a more intimate, personal look at a sailor’s life; they want to remember the comforts of home while at sea, and they want to remember the adventures of sea while at home.”

This exhibit is generously sponsored by Maine Street Design Company. The museum is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at MaineMaritimeMuseum.org