This is the second small community museum we have visited during our stay in Gulf Shores. Located in nearby Orange Beach, the Indian and Sea Museum is devoted to Native Americans and the nautical history of the area.
A 1910, one-room schoolhouse, it was used as a church and community center in the 1920s; and, then a museum beginning in 1995. The building was moved to its current location in 1999.
Native Americans that lived here for centuries were of the Mississippian group. This dugout canoe (500+ years old) was made of a single cypress tree.
Bobcats still live in the area although their habitat continues to be threatened by development.
As you would expect, there are several exhibits about the marine life found in Orange Beach.
If you look closely at this photo, you can see three oyster rings. These were used (and still are) to measure the size of an oyster by pushing it through the ring.
Many artifacts donated by locals relate to the early days of the fishing industry. The rudder, of the sailing schooner, Murrow, was a supply vessel and buoy tender that sank at the Alabama Canal and Wolf Bay during a severe 1926 hurricane. Also shown are harpoon tips, a ship’s bell, and life jackets/rings. Several large anchors are on display outside.
Here’s one of the multiple fish displayed on the wall.
Other miscellaneous items have also been donated that reflect the history of the region, including antique bottles, turpentine tree pots, a moonshine still condenser, and bedwarmer.
This transistor radio brought back memories of our childhood, too!
The city of Orange Beach was not incorporated until1984; and,has experienced tremendous growth as a resort and fishing destination since.
The museum is open Tuesday-Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. We had a nice visit on a rainy afternoon. For additional information about the museum, go to www.orangebeachal.gov/facilities/indian-sea-museum/about.
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