North Beach is a hub of activity in Calvert County, especially in the summer. However, with everything going on, it’s possible that you may have overlooked a small museum that displays some interesting local artifacts from bygone eras. If you don’t know about the Bayside History Museum, it’s worth a visit. The museum just celebrated a grand re-opening in May after relocating to the former North Beach Community Center.
As its name indicates, the Bayside History Museum tells the history of this area, from paleontological and archaeological finds to relics from the not-too-distant past. On the first floor, you can find fossils and sharks’ teeth alongside a reproduction carousel from the old Chesapeake Beach Amusement Park. You’ll also see the original juke box from Uncle Billie’s – a North Beach hot spot in the 1940’s and 50’s – as well as old slot machines and sundry other items from long-gone local businesses.
Some visitors may recognize the vintage signs hanging in the stairwell as they make their way to the second floor. I love vintage signs, so this was one of my favorite parts of the whole museum. Once you’re upstairs, you’ll find an exhibit explaining how the War of 1812 impacted this area. However, most of the upstairs is devoted to scouting, especially Camp Roosevelt – a former Boy Scout camp. As a former Girl Scout, I enjoyed seeing the uniforms, handbooks, pins, and other memorabilia on display.
This museum plans to offer children’s programs soon, and group tours are also available if you call ahead. A research room is currently in the works, with plans to open this fall. Parking is available on-site, and admission is free. There’s also a gift shop with many items related to the local area, including art, books, educational toys, and jewelry. Stop by the Bayside History Museum today and take a walk down memory lane!
http://www.baysidehistorymuseum.org