Conserved aboard the historic ferry Berkeley, the library, archives, and objects collections specialize in the story of human interaction with the sea, particularly in the Pacific region. These resources exist primarily to aid in the interpretation and contextualization of the museum’s collection of vessels and maritime-related objects. The MacMullen Library and Research Archive are principally reserved for use by museum members. The general public may also apply to use the library facilities. Research and consultation is by appointment only.
The histories of San Diego Bay, coastal California, and the Pacific Ocean are well represented in the collection. The library and archives are rich in written records, photographic and moving images, and oral histories detailing the careers of emigrant ships like the Euterpe / Star of India, ferryboats epitomized by the Berkeley, classic steam yachts like Medea, eighteenth and nineteenth-century warships like the Surprise and Californian, and fishing craft, and harbor work boats like Pilot.
On site research and consultation are by appointment only.
