St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation & Museum

St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation & Museum is at 7 Front Street. Revolving exhibits depict the island's history and culture. Among the items displayed are pre-Columbian artifacts; old maps and photos; artifacts recovered from an 1801 shipwreck; and articles from the island's forts and plantations, including an 18th-century Chinese porcelain dinner service. A small art gallery features paintings from local artists. Exhibits related to nature, environment and geology also are featured. A reference library is on the premises.