Mark Wilkins at the helm of the skipjack, Dee of St. Mary’s

SOLOMONS, Md. – The Calvert Marine Museum is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Wilkins, new curator of Maritime History. Wilkins is an historian, published author of maritime and aviation history, lecturer, boat builder, and ship model maker. His models are featured in maritime museums up and down the East Coast. He earned a master’s degree from Harvard University and studied at Washington University in St. Louis for his undergraduate degree. Wilkins brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise and is an excellent complement to the CMM staff.

Relocating after 20 years on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, his career highlights include Exhibit/Content Developer at the Mystic Seaport Museum where he designed, curated, built, and managed the installation of his most prized project, Treasure of the Permanent Collection exhibit. This was the “greatest hits” of the collection.

Wilkins has served as director and curator of both the Cape Cod Maritime Museum and the Atwood House & Museum. As director at Atwood House & Museum, he completed restoration of historic c. 1752 Atwood House in 2010. He researched and developed the Chatham to China exhibit. This fascinating experiential exhibit is comprised of a series of vignettes taking visitors, young and old, on an adventure starting on the deck of a merchant ship proceeding to a Chinese market stall. Hands-on activities included passing a Clipper ship bow and then on to the East India wharf, with the final vignette being the Atwood General Store where visitors could see goods from the China trade in the local store.

At Cape Cod Maritime Museum, Wilkins was also the museum’s boat builder, and successfully completed the catboat Sarah project. This was a three year project that included educational outreach, construction of replica 1886 catboat Sarah, and the vessel served as a floating classroom after launching.

“While Cape Cod is a nice place to visit, my wife Karin, an elementary school teacher, and I wanted a change. I am originally from Alexandria, Virginia where my career began at the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum, and I’m glad to call this area home again,” said Wilkins. He is passionate about art, history and education and dedicated to imaginative programming. He is currently working on several books relating to WWI aviation and is serving as historical consultant and producer of aerial effects for the Lafayette Escadrille Documentary Film.

“We are very pleased to find someone who combines practical hands-on experience with a strong academic background. As a researcher, writer, lecturer, and boat builder, Mark really puts it all together!” said director, Sherrod Sturrock.

To reach Mark Wilkins, curator of Maritime History, please call 410-326-2042, ext. 31 or email Mark.Wilkins@calvertcountymd.gov.