Julia A. Purnell Museum - Snow Hill, MD
The Julia A. Purnell Museum is located in the Town of Snow Hill which is one half hour drive from the Atlantic beaches (Ocean City - Assateague). Visiting this small museum which houses over 10,000 artifacts - one of the most comprehensive collections of Early Americana artifacts in the State of Maryland is well worth the trip even you must drive several hours.
Housed in a small gothic-style building which served for a short time as the local Catholic church, the museum takes full advantage of every square inch of space with modern displays that include interpretive panels and signage that allow visitors to self guide their own tours at a leisurely pace.
The museum building and artifacts are owned by the Town of Snow Hill which has been most progressive in recent years in developing attractions that will make it a destination for visitors that travel the Eastern Shore. The exhibits range from interactive "touch" exhibits for children to Dressed Fleas (yes ... actually fleas dressed in clothing - a circus type exhibit), old tools, Victorian era clothing, Pocomoke Indians and the extensive collection of needlework by Snow Hill folk artist Julia A. Purnell.
Julia A. Purnell was born in Snow Hill in 1843 and lived to b 100 years old. When she was 85 she became disabled and began a hobby of doing needlework. Many of her creations featured historic Snow Hill sites. Her son William crafted wooden frames for the needlework which are currently highly sought after and bring a hefty price at auction. When Julia died, William donated her needlework and collection of early Americana artifacts to the town in her memory. The Town of Snow Hill has continued to foster the legacy of regional history that Julia and William began by supporting and funding the Museum. Local residents and loyal museum members have also contributed both artifacts and financial support.
Though the Museum is only open from April to October, special appointments can be made to view artifacts by calling the Museum at 410-632-0515 in the off season.
Normal hours of visitation April through October are Monday through Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM and Sunday 1 to 4 PM. Admission is $2.00 for Adults and $.50 for children 5-12.
For more information on displays, exhibits and events sponsored by the museum, visit the Julia A. Purnell Museum website.
Photo of Purnell Museum courtesy of the Worcester County Library. Photo of Julia A. Purnell courtesy of the Julia A. Purnell Museum. For more information on Snow Hill history, see Snow Hill - Images of America.
