NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Historical Association has reopened the doors of the Whaling Museum for the 2025 season and unveiled an exciting new installation in the family-oriented Discovery Center. Significant carvings by the late master wood carver Paul McCarthy, presenting the stages of a Yankee whaling voyage to the South Pacific, have been displayed for the island community and visitors to enjoy.
“Our Discovery Center is a vital space for island and visiting families to play, learn, and explore. These new carvings enhance the space tremendously and bring a new level of storytelling engagement for our staff to activate. We sincerely thank Finn and Kim Wentworth for this generous gift that will benefit our visitors for years to come,” said Niles Parker, NHA Gosnell Executive Director.
Paul McCarthy (1943-2023) specialized in eagles, signs, quarterboards, and architectural carving. He opened his first shop in Scituate, MA, in 1969 and worked for many years from a shop near the rotary here on Nantucket. His most notable work with the Nantucket Historical Association is the iconic “Going on the Whale” that decorates the front of the Whaling Museum on Broad Street.
McCarthy’s whaling scene panels, now displayed in the Discovery Center, were made between 1997 and 2001. They include views of Nantucket Harbor and Brant Point, scenes in the Pacific, and representations of whale hunting. McCarthy’s carving work is highlighted by paintwork by Mindy Stevens.
“Paul McCarthy, respected artist, master carver, and longtime member of the Nantucket community, considered this his masterpiece. It is our gift to the people and island we’ve loved,” said the Wentworth Family.
The Nantucket Historical Association invites visitors to view this notable new addition to its Discovery Center and enjoy this family play space, open during Whaling Museum hours, Monday-Saturday, 10 am-4 pm, and FREE for all year-round island residents.
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