Crisfield Maryland | Places to visit in Maryland

Attractions in Crisfield

June 23, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

Image by tangiersound via Flickr

Whether you’re traveling to Crisfield for business or pleasure, it’s best to make time for some of the most interesting and exciting attractions that Crisfield has to offer. Because of its unique position surrounded by inlets and other bodies of water, Crisfield, Maryland is the perfect place to enjoy the rhythmic huh of nature. Enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of seaside habitats.

The most popular and well known attraction in Crisfield, Maryland is Jane Islands State Park. You could spend a week exploring all the waterways, hiking trails and other fun things to do at this park – and many people do. The park is a more rural natural experience. There is no camp counselor making a list of things to do and places to see. Instead, the park is quiet and allows for great family vacations or even a trip with a significant other. Enjoy the isolated shoreline and marshland of with kayaking, canoeing and other water fun or take a hike on one of the several nature trails available. You can go into full camping mode in a campground (although there are restrooms nearby) or rent one of the full-service cabins on the property.

Overwhelmed by everything there is to do at Jane Island State Park or just have time for a day trip? Kayak along the Chesapeake Bay and enjoy the lack of cars on Tangier Island. While you can take a golf cart around the island, it’s even more fun if you bring your bicycle and create your own tour. Make your trip all-inclusive by enjoying freshly caught seafood at Fisherman’s Corner.

Filed Under: Crisfield, General Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield Maryland, Kayak

Crisfield’s Quaint and Cozy B&Bs

May 13, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

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Known as the seafood capital of the world, Crisfield, Maryland, is a quaint city on the Chesapeake Bay. Along with several delicious seafood restaurants, this quiet spot is home to the annual National Hard Crab Derby, and features ideal fishing spots, a state park and easy access to the scenic Tangier and Smith islands. For anyone looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of a city, Crisfield is the kind of place that will let you kick up your feet and relax. Before traveling to Crisfield, be sure to explore your lodging options; there are several cozy choices for you to choose from.

One option is the Marquis Manor B&B. This historic bed and breakfast opened in 1898, and continues to serve travelers. Close to restaurants shopping and sightseeing, Marquis Manor also boasts a café that serves specialty coffees and teas. With Marquis Manor, you can opt for a fun-filled package, such as the Café, Stay & Play Package, which includes lodging, breakfast and kayaking for two.

Another option is Crisfield’s My Fair Lady Bed & Breakfast. My Fair Lady is said to combine southern hospitality with Eastern Shore charm to create the perfect getaway destination. My Fair Lady is located in a Victorian-style home built in the 1900s, and features a formal dining room, front and back parlor, sun porch, five guests rooms and a top-floor suite. The B&B also offers special packages, such as an intimate wedding package for up to 40 guests.

Filed Under: Crisfield, General Tagged With: Crisfield Maryland, Maryland, Tangier

Crisfield – A City Built on Oyster Shells

March 21, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

The city of Crisfield Maryland is now widely known as the “Crab Capital of the World” indeed the area plays host to the National Hard Crab Derby each year solidifying its reputation as one of the main seafood centres of the United States.

But while crab may be the dish of the day in contemporary Crisfield, there was a time when this area served up many more briney delights for the delectation of diners across the country.

Indeed, the site on whcih the city sits is that of the old fishing village Annemessex, and even before the settlers arrived was a recognised sweet spot for seafood used by the local native American Indians.

While city founder Benjamin Summers was responsible for the creation of the Somer’s Cove area, now one of the biggest marina’s along this coast, it was Eastern Shore Railroad president John W. Crisfield who opened up trade routes to the town some two centuries later who was responsible for the boom in the seafood business – with trains making a reliable trade more possible.

Such was the sudden demand for Crisfield’s seafood that the settlement soon became one of the most inhabited citiies in the area, meaning that there was a great need for expansion to accommodate the new arrivals.

And while oyster shells from the city’s longstanding seafood tradition had been dumped in areas outside the original settlement – much of today’s downtown now stands atop these dumps meaning Crisfield is a city that is both literally and figuratively built on oyster shells.

Filed Under: Crisfield, Events Tagged With: Crisfield Maryland, Seafood, United States

Things to Do in Crisfield, MD

March 17, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

If you are planning a trip to Crisfield Maryland, there are a wide range of entertainment options on offer with something to suit all tastes.

As this city is rich in culture and history, curious visitors may wish to take a tour through the old town area with the local heritage society learning out how the city as it stands today was built on the oyster shells of the substantial seafood trade. Culture vultures may also enjoy visiting one of the city’s three museums.

For those who wish to get their kicks on the water there are a range of exciting options available in the Crisfield area – from daily cruises to Tangier Island and Smith Island for those who like to explore at a leisurely pace to water sports instruction on the city shore for those seeking something a little more extreme.

Anglers will be spoiled for choice in this area, famous for its seafood and known colloquially as the “The Crab Capital of the World”. Charter fishing is available from range of providers based in the city of Crisfield.

For nature lovers the area, nestled between the Aneemessex and Pocomoke Rivers in the Tangier Sound of Chesapeake Bay has a lot to offer including the popular Jane’s Island State Park.

Sailors can take advantage of one of the biggest and best marina’s along the coast at Somer’s Cove, while foodies will find delight in the local seafood delicacies served up in the city’s eateries.

An exciting programme of open events also runs throughout the summer and early autumn with highlights including the National Hard Crab Derby, the Fourth of July Freedom Fest and the Wheels on the Waterfront Classic Car Cruise In. Details and dates for all events are available from the local chamber of commerce.

Filed Under: Crisfield, Events Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield Maryland, Maryland

Crisfield Somerset Strawberry Festival 2011

March 13, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

The 2011 Somerset Strawberry Festival will take place over two day on Firday 13 and Saturday 14 May in the suburb of Marion – just a short drive from Crisfield city centre.

The event, which is a highlight of the local festival calendar attracts visitors and locals alike to enjoy the local strawberries and take part in a day of fun and frolics with a strawberry theme.

On the Firday opening night of the event, visitors can enjoy street dance around Marion, view live entertainment including music from local bands and even see the judging for the hard fought local titles Little Miss Strawberry and Little Mr Strawberry.

The second day of festival events see things in full swing with stalls opening from 8am to 2pm offering a delightful range of strawberry themed delicacies.

More energetic visitors may wish to take part in the Strawberry Strut – a 5k course for which participants must register on the Friday night, while families can take advantage of special events in the children’s area aimed at entertaining the little ones.

Live entertainment will be laid on throughout the day while judging of competitive strawberry products including jams and prserves takes place.

The finale of the festival begins at 11am with the gathering of the Strawberry Festival Parade, populated by local children, pets and groups who make a special effort for the occasion.

Visiting the Somerset Strawberry Festival is free and well worth the short taxi ride from downtown Crisfield to get a real flavor of local culture.

Filed Under: Crisfield, Events Tagged With: Crisfield Maryland, Entertainment, Fragaria

National Hard Crab Derby – Crisfield, MD

March 6, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

The end of the summer is not allowed to pass unmarked in the city of Crisfield and the arrival of the month of September also heralds the arrival of the National Hard Crab Derby and Fair.

Known affectionately as the “Crab Capital of The World” it is no surprise that this city on the Chesapeake Bay should play host to such an event, which offers a great insight into the local community and culture.

Held at Somers Cove Marina this excellent community event is a real local tradition that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Help over two days in September, the event features an exciting array of crab-based fun, from live crab racing to crab cooking competitions where visitors can sample some of the exquisite entries.

For those who find their appetites whetted by all this crustacean based fun, recipe books are available to take away which include versions of all of the entries on offer on the day under the tongue in cheek title of the “World’s Crabbiest Recipes”.

The event also plays host to the ubiquitous beauty pageant, where local girls compete for the title of Miss Crustacean (or Miss Crusty as it is affectionately known locally) as well as a 10 kilometer running event, a fitting swimming competition as well as boat based competitions including races and docking challenges. Other challenges include a crab picking contest.

A carnival runs in conjunction with the Hard Crab Derby and the event offers an excellent selection of live entertainment for visitors, before the whole weekend is rounded off with a stunning fireworks display above the waters of Tangier sound.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Chesapeake Bay, Crab, Crisfield Maryland

Annual Events in and Around Crisfield

February 16, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

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Are you thinking of moving to Crisfield and wondering what the town has to offer? Are you a new resident of the town looking for things to do? Are you thinking of planning a trip to Crisfield and are looking for the perfect weekend to visit? You’re in luck! Crisfield offers a ton of great local events that celebrate Crisfield’s heritage, community, and seafood culture. So what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Crisfield and visit one of these great events!

Somerset Strawberry Festival. If Crisfield is the “Seafood Capital of the World,” nearby Marion Station is the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” While Marion Station is no longer producing strawberries like it did back in the early part of the century, the town hasn’t forgotten the produce that built their town. What better way to kick off summer than with a festival dedicated to one of summer’s most iconic fruits? The Somerset Strawberry Festival takes place in May every year. Events include a Little Miss & Mr. Strawberry Festival Pageant, the Strawberry Strut 5K, Strawberry Jam & Jelly contests, and the Strawberry Festival Parade.
Freedom Fest. The Freedom Fest is an Independence Day celebration that features food, fireworks, and fun that costs only $5 for regular admission. Veterans get in free.
National Hard Crab Derby. Arguably one of Crisfield’s most famous events, the National Hard Crab Derby is a four-day crab extravaganza in early September. Visitors come from all over the world to celebrate one of the sea animals that made Crisfield famous: the Maryland blue crab. Events include a carnival, a Crab Cooking Contest, live entertainment, a 10K race, a parade, skiff races, and arm wrestling contests. Major events include the Crab Picking Contest, the Governor’s Cup Race, the Boat Docking Contest, and the National Hard Crab Derby Race. The Hard Crab Derby Race is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a race where live crabs race. The crabs are all numbered on the back of their shells so participants and race officials can tell which crab has won. It’s a national event!

Filed Under: Crisfield, Property Management Tagged With: Callinectes sapidus, Crisfield, Crisfield Maryland

Local Restaurants in Crisfield: The Watermen’s Inn

February 8, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

Ask any Crisfield local and they’ll tell you that one of the of the best places to go in Crisfield is the locally owned The Watermen’s Inn. The restaraunt is owned by Brian Julian and Kathy Berezoski. These two owners and operators have owned The Watermen’s Inn for over 20 years. Julian and Berezoski have owned the restaurant since summer 1988. The two both received Culinary Arts Associate degrees from the Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Berezoski also has an Associate degree in Pastry Arts and a Bachelor’s in Food Service Management.

The Watermen’s Inn prides itself on using fresh and local seafood as well as a variety of other fresh local ingredients. The restaurant offers nightly dinner specials to keep the menu fresh and interesting. The restaurant also offers fresh-made desserts. The restaurant boasts a tap room with a full drink menu.

The restaurant is conveniently located two blocks from the City Dock and Somers Cove Marina. The Watermen’s Inn is located on the corner of 9th and Main and is also close to the J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum. The seafood restaurant is open only from Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner except for July and August, when the restaurant is open from Wednesdays to Sundays. The restaurant also serves breakfast on the weekends. The Watermen’s Inn staff recommends that diners make reservations for dinner. The Watermen’s Inn starts lunch at 11:00 on weekdays and it opens for breakfast at 8 AM on weekends.

The Watermen’s Inn also runs an extensive catering service. The staff promises to work with clients in order to create a customized menu. The catering service also delivers. Kathy Berezoski also runs a “Cakes by Kathy” service which provides wedding cakes along with other specialty cake. At the Pocomoke Elks, the Watermen’s Inn is listed on the preferred catering list and the company has catered at many local businesses, hotels, and museums.

Menu favorites include backfin lump crab cakes, crab soup, and the restaurant’s homemade desserts. Locals always recommend to get the daily special for a true treat.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Crisfield Maryland, J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum, Restaurant

Demographics: Who Lives in Crisfield?

February 3, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

Crisfield had 2,723 people at the 2000 census. Of these 2,723 people, there were 1,172 households. 723 of these households were families. Crisfield has a population density of 1,675 people per each square mile. The 1,357 housing units had a density average of 835/square mile. As for ethnicity demographics, the town is 59 percent white, 37 percent African American, .5 percent Asian, .4 percent Native American, and .4 percent Pacific Islander. .4 percent are from other races. 2.68 percent are from two or more than two races. The population is also 1.7 Latino/Hispanic.

Of those 1,172 households in Crisfield, 30.3 percent had children under age 18 living within the household. 33 percent were married couples who lived together. 25 percent were women with no husband in the household. Non-families made up 38 percent. 34 percent of the Crisfield households were comprised of individuals. 19 percent were a single individual over age 65. The average household size in Crisfield is 2.3. The Crisfield average family size falls at 2.9.

As for age demographics, 28 percent of the city is under the age of 18. 8 percent is between the ages of 18 to 24. People aged 25 to 44 make up 24.5 percent of the city. 21 percent of the population is between the ages of 45 to 64. People who were 65 or older make up 18 percent of the city. The average age in Crisfield is 37. There are statistically more women than men in Crisfield, with 75 males for every hundred females. There are 71 males for every hundred females over the age of 18.

The average income for a household in Crisfield is just under $18,000. The average income for a family is just under $24,000. Men in Crisfield make about $10,000 more than their female counterparts, with men making an average income of over $30,000. Women in Crisfield make over $20,500 in average income. Crisfield has a per capita income of $12,387. 35 percent of population is below the poverty line while 30.5 percent of families fall below the poverty line.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Crisfield, Crisfield Maryland, Household

The History of Crisfield

February 1, 2011 by admin Leave a Comment

Crisfield can trace its inhabitants all the way back to when the Annemessex, part of the Algonquin Nation’s Pocomoke tribe, lived in the area (the Annemessex River takes its name from these native inhabitants). In 1663, a settler from England, Benjamin Summers, came to the area to claim his headright (a common practice in England at the time). Summers claimed a 300-acre stake of land which he called “Emmessex.” Summers would go on to claim another 200 acres, which he named “Musketa Hummock.” These original tracts of land remain within Crisfield. Later, a 100-acre piece of land was patented and named “Little Worth.” The combination of these three initial land claims would eventually be called “Somers Cove.” Somers Cove grew into a large seafood distribution center on the East Coast. The fast-growing Somers Cove had more than 100 buildings by 1804, whereas two similar towns on the peninsula only had 40 and 4.

John W. Crisfield helped bring the Pennsylvania Railroad System’s Eastern Shore Railroad to Somers Cove in 1866. Somers Cove became a city shortly thereafter, in 1872. The town was renamed to honor Crisfield’s efforts in having the railroad connect to the former Somers Cove and boosting its economy through rail traffic. Crisfield was soon called the “Seafood Capital of the World” due to the amount of seafood Crisfield shipped to different parts of the country. The nickname is still used today to describe the city.

Thanks to the flourishing seafood industry, Crisfield was the second largest city in Maryland by 1904, following Baltimore. The town had a population of 25,000, with people coming to Crisfield from all over the country to work in the seafood industry. The town had so many leftover oyster shells from the seafood industry that the shells, along with soot from the rail system, was deposited in salt marshes. The shells and soot formed a peninsula upon which downtown Crisfield was built, leading people to honestly say that the town was built on seafood, or “on top of oyster shells.”

Crisfield is still best known for its seafood to this very day.

Filed Under: Crisfield Tagged With: Crisfield Maryland, Maryland, Seafood