Welcome to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum
Phone: 508-362-8521
Welcome to the Coast Guard Heritage Museum
Phone: 508-362-8521
About Us
Who we are...
The Coast Guard Heritage Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Our mission is to tell the Coast Guard story from a regional Cape Cod perspective. We are one of only two free-standing museums in the country dedicated to celebrating U.S. Coast Guard history. It is very appropriate that we occupy the 1856 U.S. Customs House in Barnstable. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the birth place of the Coast Guard and both Customs and Coast Guard have 18th century origins under the Treasury Department. Both organizations have worked closely since that time. The service’s legacy on the Cape is very deep and rich. It has protected our shores and harbors, rescued thousands of distressed seamen, saved cargo worth millions of dollars, interdicted illegal drugs, promoted vessel safety, and enforced environmental, fisheries and maritime laws. In short, the Coast Guard has performed and continues to perform critical missions that protect our national interests, promote economic prosperity, and ensure public safety. With over 2700 square feet of display space, we have exhibits filled with historic artifacts, models and stories that celebrate that history. Your admission includes use of a handheld audio tour system, if desired.
Where we are located...
The Coast Guard Heritage Museum is located in the historic old Customs House at the corner of Main Street and Millway in Barnstable Village on Cape Cod, MA. Built in 1855 to a design by Ammi Young, it was used as a custom house and post office until 1913, continuing to house the post office and other offices until 1958. It was converted into a museum in 1960, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
We are open for the season as of 1 May!
Opening day for the 2021 season was Saturday 1 May. All COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted so we look forward to seeing you on Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, during our regular season that ends on 30 October. Admission is still $5 for adults, children 10 and under, active duty Coast Guard personnel and Museum Members are free. Advance Reservations are no longer need or available.
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Donate
As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization the Museum is staffed and operated almost exclusively by volunteers. Our operating funds come solely from admission fees, memberships and donations. Always check with your tax professionals, but in most cases, donations to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations are tax deductible.
Our Partners
