Does the NHA offer resources for the study of Nantuckets material culture and decorative arts?
The NHA has an impressive decorative arts collection including paintings, drawings, textiles, scrimshaw, baskets, ceramics, silver, whaling tools and implements, and furniture, with many items made or used on the island. Our two museums and three historic house museums (open seasonally) provide space for both permanent and changing exhibitions. Items that are not on exhibition are stored at the NHA’s climate-controlled storage facility, the Bartholomew Gosnold Center. This building provides a safe haven for the NHA’s collection, with limited access, appropriate climate controls, and reduced light levels, which will aid in preserving the artifacts for future study and exhibition. The NHA encourages research into Nantucket’s material culture and social history. Requests for access to collections storage in order to pursue a specific research project are welcome. To schedule an appointment please email us.
