The Key West Art & Historical Society’s upcoming exhibition, “Our Working Waterfront,” explores the island’s long maritime history, detailing the various industries and people that have operated from Key West’s Historic Seaport district. A reception for opening night will take place Dec. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Key West Museum of Art & History, 281 Front St.
“Our Working Waterfront” will reveal the complex interconnections of seafront work, while integrating never-before-exhibited historic photos and a range of artifacts from the society’s permanent collection. Employment opportunities included shipbuilding, wrecking, military service, sponging, turtling and shrimping. The island’s maritime legacy includes those who lived in the Keys and deemed the littoral waters their backyard, as well as sea-faring travelers who dropped anchor for a brief time when transiting the Florida Straits.
“Key West boasts a hardy and diverse maritime history. Its early history was shaped by surging maritime activity brought by European colonization, an increased federal and military presence, and seafaring industries that defined the city’s growth and development,” said Cori Convertito, curator and historian for the society. “During its history, Key West has been compelled to reinvent itself and its industries several times in order to remain self-supporting. Each time we evolve and grow in new ways, one constant remains — our economic dependence and use of our coastal waters. Exploring the various ways we interact with our waterfront will be a stirring reminder of our past and a glimpse into our future.”
“Our Working Waterfront” runs until Feb. 11, 2024, in the Bryan Gallery. More information is available from Convertito at 305-295-6616 ext. 507 or cconvertito@kwahs.org.
