This museum offers a peek into the life of a wrecking family. Memorabilia and documents from the salvage trade plus marine artwork by a variety of artists.

Old House Wreckers Museum FAQ's:

Question: What is the Old House Wreckers Museum?

Answer: A nonprofit museum featuring many original furnishings, ship models, maritime artifacts, documents relating to the activities of wreckers, and items recovered from Keys waters.

Question: Who originally lived in the house?

Answer: Capt. Francis Watlington, his wife, and nine daughters.

Question: Who was Capt. Francis Watlington?

Answer: Watlington was a Customs Inspector, Lightship Captain, harbor pilot, and “wrecker”

Question: What was a "Wrecker"?

Answer: Salvagers who raced to ships run aground on the reefs, rescued their crew, and benefited from the cargo aboard.

Question: What will I see at the museum?

Answer: The museum features many original furnishings, ship models, maritime artifacts, documents relating to the activities of wreckers, and items recovered from Keys waters.

Question: What are the hours and fees for the museum?

Answer: Open daily 10-4. Adults-$5, Children under 12-$1

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