Preble - Marr Historical Museum

About this museum

Reaching the Preble - Marr Historical Museum requires a ferry ride to Great Cranberry Island, and that journey across the waters of coastal Maine is just the beginning of a visit that feels wonderfully removed from the modern world. At 163 Great Cranberry Rd on Cranberry Isles, this charming free museum preserves the maritime heritage and island way of life that have defined this tiny community for centuries. Admission is by donation, keeping the door open to every curious traveler.The museum occupies a building known locally as Cranberry House, and its collections reflect the resourcefulness and self - reliance of island living. Maritime artifacts, fishing equipment, historical photographs, and documents trace the community's deep connection to the sea. Local crafts, maps, and personal memorabilia round out the exhibits, painting a portrait of a place where neighbors depend on one another and traditions endure across generations.Beyond the galleries, nature trails behind the museum wind through the island landscape, offering peaceful walks with glimpses of wildflowers, seabirds, and ocean views. On weekends, the museum occasionally hosts food, drinks, and community gatherings that give visitors a taste of genuine island hospitality. The famous Hitty Room, inspired by the Newbery Medal - winning children's book, is a special highlight that delights young readers and literary fans.The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Accessible parking, an accessible entrance, and accessible restrooms ensure a comfortable experience. The island's sole general store is nearby for provisions.Rated 4.7 out of 5, the Preble - Marr Historical Museum is one of the most unique free things to do in Cranberry Isles and the greater Mount Desert Island region. It is a place where the pace slows, conversations linger, and the stories of a small Maine island community come to life in the most personal way imaginable.