Connecticut Museum Uses Website to Create Community Around Local History

The Custom House Maritime Museum has increased event attendance since listing information on website

Established by an impassioned group of volunteers, the Custom House Maritime Museum gives New London locals and visitors a unique view of the area’s nautical connections. In 1983, the museum opened its doors within New London's 175-year-old U.S. Custom House, the nation’s oldest continuously-operating U.S. Custom House and the scene of much of the city’s maritime history. Today,  the museum offers educational programs, children’s activities and local exhibitions that promote the town’s seafaring past and present. It also serves as a community center where locals often meet to talk, hold meetings and socialize.

Museum Director Susan Tamulevich redesigned the Connecticut institution’s website when she came on board in 2008. When she relaunched the website (www.nlmaritimesociety.org), the goal was not only to create a place online where people could learn more about the Custom House, but it was also to provide a way for the organization to get the word out about all of the exciting new events happening at the museum. “Event attendance has increased significantly since we began listing our calendar on the website,” says Susan. “We’ve been able to document past events by showcasing photos on the site, and I think that’s been helpful for people who have not been able to participate. It gives them a look at all we have to offer.”

Just as important, the website has been a place for people who have moved away to hear about what’s going on in their hometown. “It has helped us create a real sense of community,” says Susan.