News for the Traveler

Bath, Maine, has long been famous for its ships. Bath is also the site of a museum devoted to preserving Maine's maritime history. The Maine Maritime Museum actually is comprised of four sites: the Sewall Mansion, housing the maritime collections and the museum's administrative offices; the Winter Street Church, where Bath's captains and shipbuilders once attended services, now housing ship models and exhibits; the Apprentice Shop, where students build classic Maine coast boats such as dories, skiffs, and sloops; and the Percy & Small Shipyard, the only surviving shipyard in America to have built large wooden sailing ships.

The museum is open daily from May 15 to Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. From June 26 to Sept. 7 the admission price includes the four sites, plus a boat ride on the Kennebec River and a free second-day admission.

Bath also has outstanding examples of historic architecture. The Sagadahoc Preservation Society has prepared a walking and driving tour pointing out particular houses and their features.

For more information, write the Maine Maritime Museum, 963 Washington Street, Bath, Maine 04530.