Conch Honk

“Conch Honk” at the Oldest House in Key West!

Conch Honk
Photo by PD Cummings

Travel back to the days when news was announced with a “honk”, not a “tweet”.    Enjoy the sounds at the 53th Annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest, sponsored by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, at NOON on Saturday, March 7 in the garden of the Oldest House Museum, 322 Duval St. in Key West.  The event is FREE for competitors and spectators alike.

Not just a tall tale: Far-reaching sounds from these marine snail shells were a means of communication by Calusa Indians and by early Key Westers to signal that a sinking ship was spotted offshore in need of rescue … and carrying potentially lucrative salvage.

During the “Conch Honk” enthusiastic children and adults will pucker up and demonstrate their shell-blowing talents before a panel of local “judges”. Prizes are awarded in several age and style of expression categories. No previous experience required!  Leave your inhibitions behind and toot your own shell horn!

As an added reward, winners will have a reserved seat for transport to the “Conch Heritage Day” celebration at the Southernmost Point to participate in unveiling the Bishop Albert Kee memorial.  Others may ride on an as-available basis. (Thanks to Historic Markers, Inc.)

Contestants may register for the event at the Oldest House Museum, 322 Duval St., from 11am to NOON on March 1.  For more information visit oirf.org  or call 305-294-9501.  Toot-ready conch shells and refreshments available for purchase on-site.

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