It's obvious from the moment you enter the Cayman Brac Museum that residents take real pride in the place.

The majority of the items in this unique homage to the island's seafaring past are on loan from the homes of locals themselves.

"It really shows the good old days," says Museum Supervisor Wanda Tatum.

There are intricate replicas of a two-masted schooner and a catboat, both used for turtling, key in the livelihood and development of the small island.

A recent addition is an exhibit chronicling the development of the island's healthcare, including the colourful story of the establishment of Faith Hospital. A unique display lists traditional natural cures used long ago (and some still to this day) such as Fever Grass for colds and chills or Headache Bush for headaches. There's also an interactive children's area complete with games and colouring books on the body and healthy eating.

The museum is housed in the old government administration building, which remains intact from yester year. This is where all the various government departments were once housed including the post office, courthouse and even a tiny jailhouse in the back. The same counters and cases that were once used for the treasury, for instance, now house the various interesting artefacts.

It's an impressive museum for such a small island (population 1,800) and the curator and volunteers are more than happy to give guided tours.

The museum is located on the north coast at Stake Bay. Opening hours: 8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Thursday; 8.30am-4pm Friday; and 9am to noon Saturday. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.