Essex has a rich and varied maritime history. Its naval dockyard at Harwich and its many coastal fortifications have ensured that it has played a major role in the nation’s defence over the centuries. The county’s proximity to the continent and the Thames estuary has meant that trade, commerce and fishing have always been important. The long coastline with its estuaries, creeks, mudflats and marshes is also a haven for wildlife. This human and natural history is celebrated in the exhibition which includes a series of informative panels, photographs, Victorian seaside souvenirs, boat building tools, naval uniforms, an oyster dredge, a docker’s hook, a motorboat engine and much much more. Chelmsford Museum is in Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street and you can get more information on the exhibition by contacting Chelmsford Borough Council on 01245 615124. | 
