Understanding Maryland’s Watermen Tradition
If you’re planning a visit to Maryland’s Eastern Shore, you’re sure to hear the term “watermen.” While this term is common on the Eastern Shore, it often leaves visitors wondering what a waterman is and what makes it such an important part of the region’s identity. In Rock Hall and throughout the Chesapeake Bay, watermen represent a way of life that has shaped the culture, cuisine, and community for generations. What Are Maryland Watermen? Maryland watermen are skilled individuals who make their living harvesting the Chesapeake Bay’s natural resources. This includes crabbing, oystering, fishing, and clamming, often using techniques passed [...]
