Museum Memories: March 17, 2018

The steady work to keep the “clam capitol” title took its toll on the habitat and production rate for Cordova clam canneries. Quotas placed by fishery regulations were barely met and a scientific investigation of the condition of the razor clam fishery showed a depletion of stocks. That factor and competition from Atlantic canned clams nearly suspended activities in Alaska. The 1964 earthquake and the reintroduction of sea otters in the Prince William Sound area ended large scale commercial production of razor clams.

Today, clamming is only a memory for the children who once dug with their families to earn a living and a recreational hobby for Cordovans.  

This photo came from the archives and collections of the Cordova Historical Society housed within the museum. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays.

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