We are very saddened by the news that the Southampton History Museum is terminating the lease with the Conscience Point Shellfish Hatchery [“Eviction Notice Sparks a Split Between Venerable Museum and Shellfish Group,” 27east.com, November 20]. Their program is not only beneficial to the environment by keeping our bays cleaner but it provides an educational experience for the youth in our area. It is a testimony to the bounty of the bays that sustained the way of life back in the 1600s and before, when the Native Americans fished and hunted in the North Sea area.
The rock at Conscience Point identifies the approximate spot where the English settlers landed, but, just as important, the Conscience Point Shellfish Hatchery attempts to preserve the bounty of the seas and the way of life that drew the settlers to that location.
As longtime members of both organizations, we hope the museum board will reconsider their decision and allow the hatchery to continue at this historic site. We feel the Southampton History Museum is an important part of our community and the preservation of the past, and would like to continue our support, but we are not in agreement with this eviction.
Connie and Rich Essay
Southampton
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