Exhibits
The heart of our museum collection focuses on the history of the International Tuna Cup Match, a legendary tournament where Wedgeport earned the title "Sport Tuna Fishing Capital of the World." Central to this story is the coveted Sharp Cup, the trophy sought by international teams from nearly thirty countries who competed here between 1937 and 1976. Our exhibits proudly display the flags representing all the nations that participated in the match. Learn about anglers Michael Lerner and Kip Farrington who were instrumental at putting Wedgeport on the map. Visitors can also explore various photographs depicting the thrilling action of rod-and-reel tuna fishing then and now, and watch historical video footage captured during the height of the tournaments, providing a dynamic look back at this incredible era.
The Full-Scale Replica Tuna Boat
Step aboard our meticulously crafted replica tuna fishing boat, built to the exact specifications of the vessels that pursued the giant Bluefin tuna in Wedgeport's heyday. This exhibit gives you a true sense of the scale and setting for the sport, allowing you to imagine the intense battles fought by the world's greatest anglers. See the gear, feel the deck beneath your feet, and get a sense of the rugged maritime life led by the famous Wedgeport guides who steered these historic expeditions.
Take a Photo next to a Giant Bluefin
No visit is complete without a picture with the giant Bluefin! Our impressive, life-sized replica tuna backdrop perfectly captures the monumental size of the fish that made Wedgeport famous. During the legendary International Tuna Cup Matches, fish weighing over 1,000 pounds were landed here, and this exhibit allows you to stand next to—or even pose with—a massive tuna that rivals those historic catches. It's the perfect photo opportunity to commemorate your visit to the "Sport Tuna Fishing Capital of the World."
The Anglers' Wall of Fame
Explore the Wall of Fame, a compelling gallery celebrating the famous anglers and international teams who converged on Wedgeport from the 1930s to the 1970s. This exhibit features photographs, records, and memorabilia from some of the most notable people who fished here, including celebrities, diplomats, and world-record holders. It vividly illustrates how this small Acadian village became a massive international destination, putting Wedgeport on the map alongside global sporting venues.
Outlaw History: Outer Baldonia and Al Capone's Associates
Discover the wilder, often surprising, side of Wedgeport's past through our collection of historical stories. Learn about the bizarre true tale of Outer Baldonia, a tiny nearby island that was briefly declared its own sovereign nation by Prince Russell Arundel, complete with a unique constitution banning "nagging women and taxes."
Even more intrigue surrounds the Tuna Cup Match itself, which was occasionally frequented by Al Capone's henchmen, who often came to fish to maintain a low profile, weaving a fascinating thread of Prohibition-era history into Wedgeport’s fishing lore.
