As of the early 20th century, many families in Arklow had some connection with the sea, whether it was fishing, coasting or deep-sea sailing.

The organising committee also compiled a newsletter containing articles about: Also included was a letter from Don Patterson of the Institute of Irish Studies in Queen's University, Belfast.

Don Patterson was quick to send what information he had that he felt would help the committee establish a permanent museum, with the Arklow Schooner DE WADDEN as its centre-point.

[citation needed] At the same time, public meetings were held and soon offers of items on loan or permanent donation were being made to the committee.

After securing a permanent structure to house the exhibits it had collected in the form of a prefabricated shelter donated by the ESB, Arklow Maritime Museum officially opened on 20 February 1976.