Santa Barbara Maritime Museum celebrates 20 years with new exhibits and programs
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum turns 20 in 2020 and they are celebrating with various activities throughout the year.
The Maritime Museum opened its doors on July 29, 2000 with the unique mission to present and interpret the rich and diverse maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. Since then it has been named one of the top 10 maritime museums in the United States by Marina Life Magazine.
The celebration begins in Januray as the museum announces its recognition by the Santa Barbara Chamber of Commerce as Nonprofit of the Year for 2020 and its application for accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums.
The museum will also be adding more exhibits to help people of all ages delve into Santa Barbara's history and culture.
These new exhibits will include the Point Conception First-Order Fresnel Lens, the historic sport fishing yacht Ranger, and an extensive collection of Dwight Brooks’ fully-functional boat models.
Three new art exhibits will also be opening which include Fishing with Paper and Ink, a set of traditional Japanese Gyotaku prints; Mermaids, photography by Ralph Clevenger and friends; and maritime paintings made by Naval artist Arthur Beaumont.
This year, the museum plans to work with local schools to create new educational programs such as in-school Science Nights, tours for school groups, and the renowned Marine Sciences, Ocean Connections and Spirit of Dana Point Tallship Overnight programs, which take children out on the sea, often for the first time.
The museum also refurbished and renamed its collections facility after one of its founders on Thursday.
A special evening to honor surfing legends Renny Yater and Shaun Tomson will be held in May. The year’s activities will end with a Founders Dinner and Reception in December.
Other activities throughout the year include monthly lectures, special film showings and events.
For more information about the museum and its 20th anniversary events, visit their website here or call (805) 962-8404. The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is located at 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190 in Santa Barbara.
