The place to view maritime artifacts in Astoria is the Columbia River Maritime Museum. It is home to artifacts large and small, displayed in the outdoor courtyard and inside the museum. The outside artifacts are popular photo opportunities; people in the photo give perspective to the enormous size of some of them. The fee for entry to the CRMM is well worth the price.
There is also a sizable collection of artifacts in storage. The Maritime Museum is in the process of planning for a second building, Mariners Hall, to get these treasures out of storage and on display to the public. The artifacts are interesting to see, but they really need to be displayed in a way that explains their purpose, history and story – so this new exhibit space is something to look forward to seeing when it opens in 2026.
There is also a full-size ship, the Lightship Columbia, to see, as well as a smaller vessel, the pilot boat Peacock, that sits out of the water on the Maritime Museums’ property.
Things to see on the plaza outside the entrance to the museum.
Here is a brief glimpse of items stored and catalogued, some of which will be displayed in the new Mariners Hall. Can’t wait for these stories to be told, and these items placed in the larger context of Astoria’s maritime history.
At other locations along the Riverwalk.
Here is a large anchor you’ll see driving through downtown.
And you’ll see buoys and anchors in people’s yards all around town.
© 2024 Carol Merwin, All Rights Reserved. Images may not be used without permission.