Mattapoisett Museum to unveil new Swordfish Weathervane exhibit
MATTAPOISETT — The Mattapoisett Museum, housed in the historic 1821 Meeting House, announced the upcoming opening of its Swordfish Weathervane Exhibit, set to debut in late May 2026.
The exhibit will celebrate one of Mattapoisett's symbols and explore its deep connection to the town's maritime history.
The Swordfish Weathervane has graced the Mattapoisett Harbor skyline for over a century, serving as an unofficial mascot and beloved symbol of the town's coastal heritage.
The original weathervane, retired in 2024 after more than 100 years, will serve as the centerpiece of the exhibit, accompanied by photos, lithographs, boat models and artifacts that tell the story of the weathervane and the people who have preserved it across generations.
The exhibit will also explore Mattapoisett's local tradition of sport fishing and will feature borrowed panels and artifacts from the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center's 2025 swordfishing exhibit, “Stand Clear the Line”.
A pre-opening launch event is planned for late May, coinciding with the museum's seasonal reopening.
The event will welcome community members, local families, and summer visitors to experience the exhibit firsthand.
The museum will also participate in Mattapoisett’s annual Harbor Days, held the third weekend of July.
As a central part of this town-wide celebration, the Museum will offer a welcoming space for visitors to cool off and explore, featuring air-conditioning, refreshments such as lemonade and accessible facilities.
By aligning with Harbor Days festivities, the Museum aims to draw in new audiences and encourage visitors to engage more deeply with the town’s rich maritime history.
The Mattapoisett Museum is open seasonally from May through October.
Membership opportunities are available for those looking to support the preservation of local history.
For more information, visit www.mattapoisettmuseum.org or follow the museum on Instagram and Facebook at @mattapoisettmuseum.
