Worcester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore presents a wide range of coastal callouts that are commonly pursued by vacationers every summer. But not everyone is a self-proclaimed “beach bum,” so to speak. For those of us who are history buffs, an off-the-beaten-track historic roadside detour can prove to be an even more treasured experience—a way to dig up local hidden gems, sans the sand. I’m talking about the array of unique museum attractions to be found, just a drive away in neighboring Wicomico County.
The area’s history is so diverse, with a wide range of museum themes to explore. In providing you with a well-versed itinerary to have on hand, this Flashback Friday Feature serves as a sample list of Wicomico County-based museum stops that should be on any history buff’s bucket list.
Adkins Historical & Museum Complex, Inc.
Located in Mardela Springs, Adkins Historical & Museum Complex was established by J. Howard and Louise Adkins in 1980. The site comprises 10 historic buildings, with a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing local history. Visitors may take free tours. Click here to learn more.
Barren Creek Heritage Museum
Also located in Mardela Springs, this unique museum focuses primarily on the heritage of the Nanticoke River watershed. The major emphasis is on the town’s well-known mineral water spa offerings, though. The complex also consists of 25 exhibits. Visit the site to read more.
C.H. Chipman Cultural Center
This Salisbury-based icon is found within the oldest standing African-American church still in existence in Delmarva. Per their founding mission statement, the site serves to educate the public of the region’s rich cultural background and to encourage community support for multicultural issues and programs. Click here to discover all it has to offer.
Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame Museum
Located at Purdue Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, this museum explores Eastern Shore baseball lore and history, as well as facts and artifacts, past and present alike. From the Orioles to the Seabirds, all credit and attributes to the necessary are explored through exhibits and memorabilia. Visit the website for more.
Edward H. Nabb Center
With its resourceful location at Salisbury University, the Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture is a repository for local history and culture, university archives, and special collections. Emphasis is directed to the school itself as well as the surrounding community. It was established in 1982 and endowed in 1998 by Edward H. Nabb, an attorney and philanthropist from Cambridge, Maryland. Click the link to discover more.
Perdue Museum
Another Salisbury University staple, the Perdue Museum at Salisbury University can be found on the north side of the Franklin P. Perdue School of Business. It is one of the nation’s only university-based museums dedicated to the proposition that students of business will be better prepared for work and life by learning about real-life behavior and business decisions of a visionary and entrepreneurial company through primary sources and interpretive displays. Click here to read more.
Sharptown Museum
The Sharptown Museum serves to educate visitors about the history of the town through interpretive exhibits and even tour times. The Sharptown Historical Society hosts many events throughout the year and in every season. Visit the website for all details.
Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art
Originally established in 1975, the museum’s niche has always been on wildfowl carvings and decoy art. The museum previously existed as a partnership of Salisbury University and the Ward Foundation. Discover more here.
Whitehaven Schoolhouse
This historic school opened in 1886 as a grammar school. It was originally a one-room schoolhouse designated for grades one through seven. It is still located on its original site. Click here to learn more.
These are only a couple of the countless stops to consider as day trip detours into local history. Plenty of opportunities can be found in addition to all