John Paul Jones Museum

"I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go in harm's way"

John Paul Jones lived in an age of great change, and thrived on it. He was born in 1747, when the landscape, agriculture and industries of Scotland were being reformed in the aftermath of the Jacobite Rebellions. Ideas, too, were changing and this was to ignite a war of independence in Britain’s American colonies and a revolution in France.

Jones shape-shifted throughout his eventful life: a 13 year old gardener’s son with a longing to go to sea; as the captain of a slave ship accused of murder; as a high ranking officer in the navy of the newly independent United States; and finally as a self-styled ‘citizen of the world’ who died in poverty in Paris in 1792, the year that France became a republic. John Paul even changed his own name and nationality, adding Jones when he chose the side of the United States.

The cottage, on the Solway coast in Dumfries and Galloway is a fun filled attraction for all the family. Learn all about the Dumfriesshire born American hero of the US Revolutionary War. Visit the cottage where he was born in 1747 and grew up as a young boy.

Step into the magnificent replica of his cabin from his most famous ship the BonneHomme Richard, in which he defeated the HMS Serapis at Flamebourgh Head. Take a walk through the museum and enjoy lots of pictures, information, facts, replica models of his ships and two short films. Join the many American visitors who make the pilgrimage every year to the cottage to pay homage to the Father of the U.S. Navy. Enjoy some refreshments and browse the gift shop. Feel free to bring a picnic and use our outdoor benches.

The museum includes the cottage where John Paul Jones was born, still furnished in the style of the 1700’s, and the visitor centre features a dramatic film adaptation of his exploits.

Doors Open Day will include Children’s activities, sand art, treasure hunt and playmobil.