22
The Development of the Museum Over Half a Century
SOON AFTER THE Whaling Museum opened its doors in July, 1930, a series of developments began to mark its history. As it had been practically unused over many years, especially in the last few decades of the 19th century, there were certain problems which soon revealed themselves in the structure. Local contractors were called upon to rectify these flaws, and in every instance the experience of these Nantucket craftsmen became important in solving these problems. Having changed the main floor of the original building, it was found that a lack of ventilation had weakened the floor joists, and considerable tearing out was necessary in replacing them. The old brick walls had little attention over the years and it was important to point up the old brick, and strengthen the window frames. Fortunately, the main timbers of the building were still strong, as were the roof trusses and girts. Considering the necessity of launching the Museum during a period of economic depression, much of this work had to be delayed, but it was not post poned. The main hall had been named "Sanderson Hall", honoring the man who had collected the wide range of whaling material, and worked so closely with William F. Macy in his concept of the Museum. In the arrangement of the material, Mr. Sanderson lent invaluable aid in his identification of the places where he had acquired the original gear. The huge whaleship flag of the Thomas Macy firm hung for over three decades from the rafters of the big room, and the tiller of the old whaleship Lima became a significant part of the room's decor. The familiar try-works, the model of the "Camels" and the "Gaming Chairs" have all remained in their original locations, along with the deck steering wheel. Occupying the most prominent position, the post of honor, is the whaleboat, com pletely fitted for lowering. The big room extending across the entire front of the structure, which for many years was the office of the Candle Manufactury, and in the later years of the 19th century became the tiny office of Joseph Barney, had been designated the "Admiral Folger Room", in honor of Admiral William Mayhew Folger, and many of his books, prints and mementoes placed therein. As the Fair Street Rooms had long since outgrown its tiny library facilities it was determined to install at the Whaling Museum a library devoted to Nantucket whaling history.
