Research Resources

Mystic Seaport’s Collections Research Center holds one of America’s foremost collections of maritime artifacts, paintings, photos, books, documents and more. Interested in whaling? The Morgan specifically? Whatever it is, Mystic Seaport is your first stop for information. Available 24/7 the Online Resources are a good place to start your research. Those with a more specific interest can dive straight into selected topics.

• View all Morgan-related resources
  Since the beginning of her construction in 1840, the Morgan, her career, and people have generated thousands of artifacts, documents and photos–many of those are now preserved and available for research at Mystic Seaport’s Collections Research Center.
• Read the Morgan‘s logbooks, journals, and ships papers
  Generally kept by the first mate, a ships log is the official record of her voyage – detailing ports visited, crew events, and weather, ships sighted and whales taken. In addition to the official log, some officers and crew kept their own accounts of the voyage. These are known as journals and often provide a more intimate look at the maritime life. All make for fascinating reading.
• Build a model from ships plans
  Documenting the construction of a vessel is an important part of preserving her for generations to come. Mystic Seaport staff has taken great care to record all the details of the Charles W. Morgan. Plan copies are available for purchase for those wishing to study her further, or make a model.
• Search the crew and voyage lists for your ancestors
  Over 1800 people sailed on the Morgan during her 37 voyages. Hailing from over 32 countries and ranging in age from 13-56, one of them may have been your ancestor.
• Browse the Art & Objects Collections
  Photographs, models, paintings, needlework, postcards and more have all been inspired by the Morgan and are collected and preserved here at Mystic Seaport.