Nautical History Gallery and Museum
Description
Our free Nautical History Gallery Museum was created by Joe Frangiosa Jr., 4-yr US Navy vet, and 16-yr USMC Helicopter/Osprey flight tech who retired, built and financed with his pension and disability benefits to create his free US Navy Nautical History of handcrafted ships and aviation replicas of evolution transformation from 1775 thru 1945.
Starting with the birth of our Continental Navy during our Revolutionary War and traveling through time to capture all critical technological advancements 1775 through 1945.
Our unique presentation of Chronological Panoramic Dioramas pairs handcrafted model ship and aviation replicas with interactive, associated galleys, wheelhouses, engine rooms, toys, uniforms, memorabilia, antiques, artifacts, and Sea Life in the same evolutionary periods. Our museum provides sentimental experiences with memories and tributes of loved ones and acquaintances who served in one of our dioramas.
Our museum started as a recognition of showcased US Naval evolution achievements and the unique meticulously handcrafted artistry that created it. To our welcoming surprise entertaining many veterans, retirees, enlisted, children, and families, every day has become a rewarding experience seeing our veterans and visitors, brought back to vivid, heartfelt memories and see their children and families visualize how they, and their forebears, so proudly served in one of our dioramas.
Open Wednesdays - Saturdays 10 AM -7 PM Sundays 12 - 5 pm
Narrated Tours - Interactive Devices - Period Wind up Antique Toys
10 ft Great White Fleet Battleship Model Buiding Demo
Joseph Frangiosa
I Overview
…
Reviews for the Nautical History Gallery & Museum consistently praise its incredibly detailed and accurate ship models, a large collection of maritime artifacts, and the knowledgeable curator who provides a personal and welcoming experience, often highlighting the impressive level of detail in the exhibits and the fascinating historical context provided.
Dale Binghama
Amazingly detailed, complex, intricate, and accurate protrayal of at least 6 periods of naval history along with great accompanying period correct artifacts. One can not possibly absorb all the information available to view in one visit. Artist Joe Frangiosa Jr., owner and curator, is full of information related to each display and happy to share his knowledge.
Steve G
9 months ago
Have never seen model warships in this detail. Unbelievable naval artifacts and an extremely friendly and knowledgeable curator(owner) of museum. A must see
Heather Wilson
Stopped by on a whim, and had a delightful conversation with Joe, who has built each and every boat model himself. He’s super knowledgeable about the history of the ships and recreating them in precise and beautiful detail. He’s a real enthusiast, and anyone interested in history, ships, the Navy, or even model building will have a great experience.
Sean M
a month ago
This was a great series of displays from early US naval history to WWII. Joe took the time to tell us about anything and everything we had questions about. Great attention to detail with models, photos and antiques.