In search of a special acquisition

Help us celebrate our 30th birthday

This replica of John Harrison’s chronometer H1 is part of a bequest and gift from its maker, Mr Norman Banham. Image Andrew Frolows/ANMM

THE MUSEUM’S SUCCESS over the past three decades would not have been possible without the dedication, spirit and ongoing support of so many people: our donors, volunteers and Members – our community. All of you have been such a big part of the museum over the years, and we can’t thank you enough for your commitment and involvement. It’s our 30th year, and amid the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, we need your help more than ever. Our community and our collection lie at the heart of our institution. The National Maritime Collection now numbers more than 155,000 historic artefacts, ranging from seagoing ships to shiny gold buttons. Behind each of these objects is a remarkable story. To commemorate our 30th birthday year, the museum is hoping to raise funds from you, our community, to purchase a significant new object for the National Maritime Collection. Our curators are currently researching objects from all over the maritime world. They are in conversation with private collectors and auction houses in several countries, searching for the perfect addition to the collection. They aim to find an important artefact that will not only enrich the collection and commemorate this 30th year as a gift from our supporter community, but also enable us to tell new stories about Australia and the sea.

It will be an object associated with 18th- and 19th-century voyaging and adventuring in the Indo-Pacific region, and one that can be reimagined for audiences today, like the pictured replica Harrison chronometer H1, made by Australian Mr Norman Banham. So many stories about this object excite and inspire viewers today, just as the original Harrison chronometers did in 18th-century Britain, when they played their part in the quest for longitude. In the spirit of true celebration and community, we are asking you to contribute to this milestone 30th anniversary appeal. All donations are tax deductible.

This is your opportunity to become an important part of the museum’s history. We will keep you informed about our progress with this significant acquisition and of course invite our donors to view it. Please help make this a birthday to remember by making your contribution today. You may do so by: • donating online at sea.museum/support/donate • sending a cheque to Australian National Maritime Museum

Foundation, 58 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 • or paying by credit card over the phone on 02 9298 3777

For more information, please call the museum’s Foundation team on 02 9298 3777 and speak to Matt Lee, Manager – VIP Relations, or Daina Fletcher, Head of Acquisitions. Both Daina and Matt will be happy to help you.