Long Island Collection
Claire and I are thrilled to embark on this unique opportunity to explore the extensive collection at Mystic Seaport Museum, focusing on objects that originate or relate to Long Island and uncovering their hidden narratives. Our mission involves a thorough examination of the collection, including the use of a variety of scholarly resources, including the institution’s website, input from curatorial staff, volunteers, and insights from the public. We aim to forge connections with other institutions, inviting them to contribute content from their own collections, thereby enriching the narrative of Long Island’s history and making it accessible to both locals and a global audience.
Our goal is to weave together stories, trades, and individuals through the lens of these objects, much like the Long Island Sound has historically connected two significant land masses. This unique body of water is not only an ecological treasure, rich in biodiversity, but also a tapestry of diverse histories—spanning indigenous cultures, colonization, slavery, industry, and the arts. Documenting our process will require a deep understanding of the grant’s objectives and collaboration across all curatorial departments, staff, and volunteers. Given that each institution has its own operational nuances, mastering various research methods and software tools will be essential. We aim to create a flexible framework that allows for discoveries to unfold, highlighting the interconnectedness of Long Island’s rich heritage.
Our journey begins with a small yet significant vessel, the oyster sloop Nellie, which will transport us to the origins of Long Island as we know it today. As this vessel undergoes intensive restoration, we will delve into its history and the broader narrative of Long Island itself. The story of the Nellie embodies a complex interplay of fact and fiction, revealing more than we initially expect. The threads it weaves remind us of the profound impact of the past on our future. This process symbolizes a full circle, reflecting the belief held by many early cultures that time is a continuous cycle rather than a linear progression. What once seemed like a flat line transforms into an endless journey, continually cycling through history and its lasting impacts.