Located at the historic Coffin School, an impressive 1854 Greek Revival-style building in the heart of Nantucket Town, the Egan Maritime Institute is the island’s only non-profit organization devoted exclusively to celebrating Nantucket’s seafaring heritage. Recognizing that Nantucket’s ongoing relationship with the sea has shaped the island’s rich history and distinctive character, Nantucket native Albert F. Egan Jr. with his wife Dorothy H. Egan created a foundation in 1996. Their collection of contemporary and illustrative art, books, and artifacts reflects Nantucket’s nautical legacy and a love of maritime art.

Featuring a commissioned series of paintings by contemporary British marine artist Rodney Charman that depicts over 200 years of Nantucket history, Egan Maritime’s collection serves as the basis for ongoing displays and special exhibits at the Coffin School. Throughout the year Egan Maritime also sponsors informative and entertaining speaker programs, often featuring local residents, on a variety of special interest topics relating to Nantucket’s maritime traditions, history, and culture.

The Egan Maritime fulfills its mission by supporting the activities of its affiliates, the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum and Mill Hill Press, all based on Nantucket.