History
The Ventura County Maritime Museum at Channel Islands Harbor (now called Channel Islands Maritime Museum) was first opened on February 13, 1991 at 2731 Victoria Blvd. in Oxnard. Harry Nelson Jr. was a local businessman who owned much of the Anacapa Harbor. His interest in maritime history led to a collection of beautiful artwork and ship models that recount the world's rich maritime heritage. Nelson wanted a place to showcase his collection, and the museum served that purpose wonderfully. The museum also owes much of its success to the work of its dedicated volunteers. Within a month of opening, the museum enjoyed over 1,000 hours of docent and volunteer time. In June 2012, the museum moved from its original location at Fisherman's Wharf to the site of the old Port Royal restaurant, where it still attracts crowds of visitors each year and works with a team of around 100 volunteers to provide.
Specialties
The Museum's collection is a treasure trove of maritime paintings, ship models, and artifacts that rival some of the finest European and U.S. collections. Sumptuous seascape paintings by 17th century Dutch masters, 18th and 19th century English Romantics, French Impressionist painter Boudin, and unparalleled contemporary maritime painters complement the finest museum-quality ship models on the West Coast, including the Marple Models: nine exquisite, highly detailed scratch-built warships; and intricate