J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum
A little gem on the Lower Eastern Shore, located in the waterfront City of Crisfield is the J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum - a "must see" attraction for anyone interested in maritime history or the rural culture of the Chespeake Bay watermen and their families.
Named for a native Crisfielder who was the only person in Maryland's history to serve in all three offices of the Board of Public Works - Comptroller, Governor and State Treasurer, this museum, on the waterfront at the Somers Cove Marina, traces the history of the Lower Eastern Shore. Exhibits include the beginnings of the Chesapeake Bay, the influence of the Native Americans on the early colonists, seafood harvesting and processing, the history of Crisfield and the evolution of that uniquely American art form - decoy carving and painting.
The museum also has exhibits on prominent Crisfielders that include the late Governor Tawes and those legendary brothers Lem and Steve Ward who pioneered the artform of decoy carving from a small workshop in Crisfield almost century ago. The Tawes Museum is housed in the Somerset County Visitor's center located in Somers Cove Marina. Though it is relatively small in space, allow 45 minutes to an hour to read the interpretive signage and displays which are remarkably modern.
Though the museum in owned and run by the Crisfield Heritage Foundation, there is always a representative from Somerset County Tourism on hand to answer and questions. A small gift shop is also located in the Visitor Center (open Fridays and Saturdays in winter months) as well as rest rooms and wall of pamphlets and brochures on Eastern Shore attractions.
Museum hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer hours include Sunday). Admission is $2.50 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 6 to 12. The Visitor Center is conveniently located on the Crisfield waterfront within walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Directions can be found at the Crisfield Heritage Foundation website. Call 410-968-2501 for more information.
