Mystic Cultural Institution Announces Layoffs Amid Financial Uncertainty

MYSTIC, CT — Mystic Seaport Museum will eliminate 22 positions amid financial uncertainty. Employees were informed of the layoffs Tuesday.

In a statement, interim president and CEO Christopher Freeman referred to the move as "difficult but necessary organization changes to address long-standing financial challenges that have been compounded in recent years by rising inflation, increased operating costs, and uncertainty in state and federal funding for cultural institutions."

Freeman said the museum remains open and active, including seasonal events like the Community Trick or Treat and Lantern Light Village.

In 2026, the museum will host the exhibition "Brickwrecks: Sunken Ships in LEGO Bricks" and a series of special programs celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

The layoffs, which affected all departments, represent around 15 percent of the museum's 150-person staff.

"To ensure the Museum’s long-term sustainability, we made a very difficult decision to reduce expenses across all areas of the organization, including personnel," the statement reads. "These decisions were not made lightly, but they are part of a broader effort to stabilize operations and position the Museum for future success."

Last year, the museum announced a $15-million renovation project.

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