The Captain Morse House

The Captain Morse House

Sam Burnham, Curator
@C_SamBurnham

St. Marys has more than its share of old homes. The city is filled with private homes that are identified by a sign out front announcing the family historically associated with the home as well as the year of construction, sometimes appropriated. There are large homes, small homes, and some in between.

We were fortunate to spend the week in such a place. The Captain Morse House was built in 1905 by a pilot captain. His job would have been to guide ships into the channel to safely reach the port. He also built a similar house across the river on Amelia Island.

Looking at his home in St. Marys, you can get a feel for who he might have been. The home is roomy with beautiful craftsmanship, particularly the staircase. He was obviously a successful man. But this is not a planter’s home; it’s a town home. The location is perfect for a pilot captain. With just a walk of a block and a half you’re on the waterfront.

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We Loved the Porches

Shopping, Dining, and the Waterfront - All Steps Away

​Today the home offers visitors an excellent location for a getaway or vacation. Right next door is a great antique and vintage shop. Across the street is the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum. You’re about two blocks from the eateries on the waterfront, just a bit further to the waterfront park. The Cumberland Island Ferry is just a short walk as well. There is no major site in the historic district that isn’t within a 10-15 minute walk. More than once I sat on the back porch with a cool drink and enjoyed the live music from Fulfiod’s Fish House right next door.

There are four bedrooms, two are furnished with two twins each. The other two offer kings. So eight people can be accommodated and the fold out sofa in the living room could comfortably make room for a ninth. There is a full kitchen with a farmhouse sink. The washer and dryer are in the kitchen as well. The three full baths are enough to accommodate a large family.

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The Staircase in the Entry Foyer

​The only negative worth mentioning is that someone saw fit to plop down a more modern building next door which hinders the view of the water from the upstairs porch. But that building houses the aforementioned antique store and Fulford’s Fish House, so it’s not a total loss.

I also think I’m a bit spoiled by our 30A vacation where the home came with complimentary bicycles. This would be a nice offer here but rentals are available from a local business.

This is is a great location for a family looking to enjoy the St. Marys area. Roomy, comfortable, classic, and convenient. The Captain Morse House is a great option for your visit. The home is currently listed for sale...which might interest you as well...

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The Covered Back Porch