The fall season brings about beautiful weather, along with a variety of activities the entire family can enjoy. From Pocomoke to Ocean City, Berlin to Ocean Pines, there’s something happening at every corner of the region during Worcester County History Week, scheduled Oct. 10-16, 2021. This week, the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum and several other local museums, historic sites, and libraries will offer events and activities highlighting our region’s unique cultural heritage.
The museum is kicking off history week with the 3rd annual Historic House Tour on October 10 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Spend the day discovering the history of your favorite beach town! This event will allow you to step into the past as you tour some of Ocean City’s oldest homes, churches, and establishments. At each location, an educator will be onsite to discuss the unique history of the building. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online at ocmuseum.org.
On Monday, October 11, capture the perfect family photo with our full display of fall flowers, pumpkins, and hay on the boardwalk in front of our shark exhibit. A staff member will be onsite to take your family photo. On Tuesday, October 12 local author, Maria Grosskettler, will be signing her newest book “Tracks.” In addition to reading a segment of her book, she will share her experience researching Berlin history.
Be sure to sign up for our free Preserving our Past program on Wednesday, October 13. Assistant Curator Cara Downey and Local History Librarian Alec Staley will teach you the proper way to preserve historic photographs and documents. Registration can be completed online at ocmuseum.org. Space is limited.
On the evening of Friday, October 15, follow along with the Dead of Night Paranormal team and experience the spirits that occupy our 130-year-old Life Saving Station. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at ocmuseum.org.
History will come to life on Saturday, October 16, from 1:00-4:00 pm, as actors from the Ocean Pines Players represent Ocean City’s past figures. Meet Zippy Lewis, who made a living selling shipwreck remains, and Ocean City’s first doctor, Dr. Townsend, who shares what it was like being ocean city’s first and only physician in the 1900s. Finally, meet Laughing Sal, known as Ocean City’s number one laughing lady!
During history week, all Delmarva locals will receive free admission to the museum. Monday through Friday, join us at 1:00 pm for the history of our Surfman program. Attendees will get the chance to take a close look at the equipment that was once used by the United States Life Saving Service to rescue ships in distress.
In addition to our onsite activities, we have a few ways you can enjoy history week without a visit to the museum. We are calling all photographers to participate in the Lou Parsons III Memorial photo contest. Online entries will be accepted from August 3-October 1, 2021. On October 16, a winner will be announced for each category, along with a grand prize winner. Categories and prize money are as follows, Ocean City/Assateague Bay Sunsets: $250, Ocean City Boardwalk: $250, Ocean City Beach: $250, and the Grand Prize Winner will win an additional $750 for a total prize of $1000!
Last but not least, do you know someone who has helped preserve local history? If so, we invite you to nominate them for the Spirit Award. Both individuals and organizations are eligible. Please visit ocmuseum.org for nominee requirements.
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~ Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum