Exhibitions

Discover the Treasures of Staithes Museum

Nestled in the heart of the historic fishing village of Staithes, our museum is a gateway to centuries of adventure, art, and local heritage. Housed in a stunning 1880 Primitive Methodist Chapel, our collection is more than just objects; it’s a living chronicle of the village, its people, and one of history’s greatest explorers—Captain James Cook.

An overview of the collection

The collections housed in Staithes Museum relate to the history of Captain James Cook, the Village of Staithes and the surrounding area, in particular Port Mulgrave, Runswick Bay and Boulby.

The collection was accumulated by the museum’s founder Reginald Firth over the course of his life, between 1936 and 2019. He found, purchased, was gifted and loaned items both in the Staithes area and during his travels around the Pacific islands, Australia, and North America. Since Firth passed away in 2019, and the museum was taken over by the Staithes Museum Heritage Trust, a few more items have been loaned and gifted to the collection.

The collection is made up of around 750 items which are on loan to the museum, around 2,480 accessioned items and around 600 photographs. There are 861 books, 32 model boats, 450 items of ceramic and glassware, 179 coins and medals, around 100 etchings, 312 items of memorabilia and social history objects, 78 papers, 195 postcards, 227 giclee prints and paintings and 64 stamps.

Our library comprises books relating to all areas of our collection - covering Captain James Cook’s life and voyages, Staithes and the surrounding area and wider reading relating to maritime history, Oceania, 18th century science and exploration, artists and history of fishing, mining and textile industries in Britain. There are also locally produced booklets and pamphlets pertaining to more recent history of the local area and to geological surveys and mining. We are developing a growing digital catalogue of our local books and brochures.

Step Back in Time with Captain Cook

Did you know that Captain James Cook, the legendary navigator, first dipped his toes into the world of discovery right here in Staithes? Our Cook collections take you on a whirlwind voyage across oceans, from Cook’s humble beginnings as a young apprentice in the bustling fishing village, to his breathtaking Pacific expeditions aboard the HMS Endeavour. Here, you’ll find a model of the Endeavour so exquisitely detailed that you can almost hear the creak of its masts as it set sail past Staithes in 1997, on a modern-day circumnavigation. Marvel at prints, drawings, and even original artefacts from his historic voyages—including items Cook himself would have used at sea.

Life and Work by the Sea

Staithes’ connection to the sea runs deep, and our museum brings this heritage to life. Wander through exhibits filled with fishermen’s tools, cobles (the local boats), and beautifully preserved sea gear, from oars and sea boots to intricate ganseys worn by Staithes fishermen. There’s even a model coble built from timber reclaimed from the very cottage where young Cook worked—talk about a piece of history! The sights, sounds, and smells of the fishing industry come alive through photographs, models, and even a few fishy faces—taxidermy, of course!

Mining, Methodism, and More

Staithes wasn’t just a fishing hub—it was also a center for alum, ironstone, and potash mining. Discover the curious history behind these industries, including the surprising use of urine in alum production (yes, really!). Our geology collection features fossils, jet, and other local treasures, perfect for those who love to dig deep into the earth’s history.

Feeling reflective? Explore the serene world of Methodism in Staithes through our captivating chapel displays, and see how faith intertwined with daily life in this tight-knit community. The beautiful stained glass windows, once part of the old Sunday school, glisten like gems, adding a spiritual glow to the museum’s atmosphere.

There are also objects which were collected by Reg Firth because they hold some link to Cook’s Voyages or early life, or were obtained by Reg in a place where Cook had visited on his Pacific Voyages.

Art and Everyday Life in Staithes

The Staithes Group of Artists—“Northern Impressionists”—found inspiration in this rugged coastal landscape. In our art collection, you’ll find original works by Dame Laura Knight and other prominent artists who fell in love with Staithes. Their plein air paintings capture the beauty of everyday life, from bustling fishing scenes to tranquil seascapes.

The museum also preserves the quaint and curious side of Staithes village life. Explore bonnets, school desks, and household items that tell the story of the families who lived and worked here. One highlight is a black mourning bonnet sent to Queen Victoria herself!

An Adventure for Everyone

From Cook’s daring adventures across the Pacific to the everyday tales of Staithes’ hardworking fishermen and miners, our museum offers something for every explorer. Immerse yourself in the stories that shaped this coastal gem and its people, and experience history not just as a spectator, but as a part of the ongoing adventure.

Staithes Museum is more than a collection—it’s a community, a journey, and a chance to step into the shoes of the pioneers who came before us. Come and discover your own connection to Staithes!