One of the most fascinating activities on Chincoteague Island is a visit to the Oyster and Maritime Museum located at the side of the road just before the bridge to Assateague. Here you'll find a truly unique collection of rare and unusual shells, fossils, and artifacts from Virginia's barrier islands and from around the world.

At the museum, you'll find not only examples of the traditional tools used in the oyster industry, but also a wealth of information on the gathering and processing of oysters. A good place to start is the sight and sound diorama that explains oystering - from breeding and growing to harvesting, packing, and shipping. You'll see models of oyster boats and an oyster dock and hear an excellent narration. Other displays and photographs provide further insight into the traditions of oystering on Chincoteague and Assateague.

The museum's collection also includes:

• fossils from the waters around the islands and from locations around the world;
• display cases containing a great variety of interesting and curious shells from around the world;
• objects that were thrown into the water and "recycled" by oyster larvae (the larvae cement themselves to almost any solid object which will then serve as their home);
• a variety of artworks which include not only painted and sculpted shells, but also a number of beautiful and practical items;
• and many other displays relating to life on and around the islands (including the original Fresnel lens from the Assateague Lighthouse).

The museum was founded as a non-profit educational institution by a group of Chincoteague women and opened its doors in 1972. Dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers are ready to answer your questions as you explore the island's heritage. Group tours are available, and the museum store offers a very nice selection of gifts and souvenirs.

Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 258 Chincoteague, VA 23336 (757) 336-6161
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