Mystic – The Mystic Seaport announced today it is the recipient of a $150,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to support components of a new exhibit, “Voyaging in the Wake of the Whalers.”

Scheduled to open next summer, the exhibit follows the historic 38th Voyage of the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan this past summer. The Morgan, a National Historic Landmark vessel, sailed from Mystic to ports across southern New England and into the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. It was the ship’s first voyage since 1921.

The new 4,000-square foot exhibit will be an interdisciplinary exploration of America’s historic and contemporary relationship with whales and whaling, according to a statement from Mystic Seaport.

“Using artifacts and artwork, along with compelling audio-visual elements and immersive displays, the experience will provide insight into commercial whaling’s complex and deep impact on the nation’s economy, culture and global position. It will also explore whaling’s historic and environmental legacy,” according to the Seaport.

This grant will fund an introductory video and a large 3D projection globe that will weave together global stories of whales, whaling and whale research in a multimedia presentation.

The award is part of the Institute’s Museums for America Learning Experiences program.