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The Atwood Museum: Chatham’s Maritime and Cultural History

Located on Stage Harbor Road in Chatham, Massachusetts, the Atwood Museum offers a deep look into Cape Cod’s maritime roots and community heritage. Run by the Chatham Historical Society since 1925, the museum showcases the region’s development from the 1700s to today. Whether you're interested in historic homes, Cape Cod culture, or Chatham's fishing history, the Atwood Museum brings the past to life through its exhibits, collections, and events.

The Historic Atwood House

At the core of the Atwood Museum is the original Atwood House, built around 1752 by Captain Joseph Atwood, a sea captain who was part of Chatham’s early community. The house stayed in the Atwood family for five generations before becoming part of the museum. Today, visitors can walk through seven restored rooms on the ground floor, each filled with period-accurate furniture and decorations that reflect daily life from the 18th and 19th centuries. An additional room, known as Marjorie’s Kitchen, was added in the 1830s and adds another layer to the story of the house.

Museum Galleries and Exhibits

In addition to the historic house, the Atwood Museum features twelve galleries that highlight various parts of Chatham’s past:

  • Stallknecht Mural Barn: This gallery includes murals painted between 1932 and 1945 by local artist Alice Stallknecht. These works show Chatham residents and local scenes from the early 20th century, giving a colorful and detailed view of the town’s culture.

  • Joseph C. Lincoln Room: This exhibit celebrates one of Cape Cod’s most well-known authors. It features first editions, manuscripts, and personal items from Joseph C. Lincoln, offering insight into his literary legacy.

  • Fishing Gallery: Learn how Chatham’s fishing industry shaped the town’s economy and culture. Exhibits cover various fishing techniques, from weir fishing and shellfishing to lobstering.

  • Tool Room: This room displays 19th- and early 20th-century tools and trade items, including the restored Atwood Store Sleigh, which dates back 150 years and still bears the original "Atwood Store" markings.

  • Chatham Light Display: A favorite for many visitors, this exhibit showcases the lantern house from one of Chatham’s original twin lighthouses. It also features a working Fresnel lens that shines whenever the museum is open.

Outdoor Features

The museum grounds also include outdoor exhibits that enhance the experience:

  • Nickerson North Beach Camp: This mid-20th-century beach shack was saved from coastal erosion and relocated to the museum. It gives visitors a look at how local families spent summers along the shoreline.

  • 18th-Century Herb Garden: Maintained by the Chatham Garden Club, this garden features herbs and plants that would have been common in colonial times. It’s a peaceful and educational part of the museum grounds.

Events and Community Involvement

The Atwood Museum isn’t just a place to explore history—it also plays an active role in the community:

  • Tuesday Talks: These are public lectures that bring in authors, historians, and other experts to discuss topics tied to local history and Cape Cod life.

  • Summer Music Series: Held on the museum’s lawn, these outdoor concerts attract both locals and visitors looking to enjoy live music in a historic setting.

  • Children’s Room: A fun and interactive space for young visitors. It includes books, blocks, coloring materials, and other hands-on activities that introduce children to local history in a playful way.

Plan Your Visit to the Atwood Museum

The Atwood Museum is open from May through October, with special events scheduled around the holidays. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and offers guided tours, a gift shop with locally made products, and a research center for those interested in exploring Chatham’s archives.

Location:
347 Stage Harbor Road
Chatham, MA 02633

Visitors can explore at their own pace or take a guided tour to get more in-depth information from knowledgeable docents. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a local resident, or a tourist passing through Cape Cod, the Atwood Museum offers a meaningful and memorable experience.

To view current exhibits, check event calendars, or learn more about visiting, head to the Atwood Museum’s official website.

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