A fellow Looper had told us about this unique island called Tangier Island so we knew we had to stop there. We left Deltaville knowing the ride would be rough and we were not disappointed. It was one of those rides where anything not stored ended up on the floor. (Thank goodness for those seasick bracelets!) As we entered the harbor we were welcomed by many red and white sheds with long docks that lined the harbor.
 |
| The watermen go down to these docks at 4 or 5 AM fire up their crab boats and go out for a long day of crabbing | |
We were greeted by Milton Parks, the 81 year old legend owner of the marina who helped us tie up to his dock with mega current going against us.
 |
| Homes are close together with these lanes separating some |
Tangier Island is one by three miles in size, has about 600 people living there, has one school with less than ten students per grade, a small medical facility staffed by RN's and PA's, and a style of speech thought to be
directly descended from early Elizabethan-era settlers (We learned that a NY producer was recruiting residents to read Shakespeare so he could record them with the intention of having actors for his upcoming NY play have the same dialect as Tangier residents).
There is a calm, peaceful atmosphere on the island, with only one pay phone, four or five gift shops, a few restaurants that close at 5 PM so get there by 4:30 PM, and a hardware store as the only retail establishments. There are no arcades, no drug stores or department stores, no traffic lights, and violent crime is virtually nonexistent. There are three Bed and Breakfasts for overnight guests, and a wild natural beach without a boardwalk or concessions. There are no ATMs on the island and most of the gift shops, eating establishments, and overnight accommodations have begun to accept credit and debit cards. There is a small museum which had not opened for the season and a soft shell crab exhibit next to Wanda's gift shop. Many cats roam all over with just a few dogs.
We found Tangier Island to be a refreshing retreat from the everyday stresses we all encounter. It was interesting to observe these hardworking people and how they get along without some of the "stuff" we must have. This is a "must see" spot for any Chesapeake travelers.
 |
| Many burial grounds in people's yards |
 |
| One of the few shops-notice the parking lot for the golf cart and the decorated garbage can in front |
 |
| Hilda Crockett's Chesapeake House where we ate family style meeting some interesting folks |
 |
| Tangier Island sunset |
|
|
|
No comments:
Post a Comment