The Museum conducts research to develop exhibits, to document its collection and to answer public enquiries. Two recent major research projects were a survey of small craft throughout the province to document vanishing designs and traditional boatbuilding methods, and an oral history programme to record life aboard the hydrographic ship CSS Acadia and cableships that operated from Halifax. The Museum offers annual research grants for marine history and works with a number of research associates to explore topics of mutual interest.
The Museum also has several research associates, who undertake to provide ongoing research into a variety of maritime themes. Several of these projects have been featured as part of our lecture series and others as research papers that are now available to the public.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic has a reference library with books and periodicals relating to marine history as well as vertical files and a knowledgable staff. Appointments are necessary. Please give as much notice as possible, so we can assist you most effectively. The Museum's archival holdings are limited. Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management has the most extensive collection of this material.
*Please note: We do not have passenger lists or genealogical material.