Located in the bustling Key West Historic Seaport, this small museum tells the story of the city’s once-thriving turtle industry. Visitors can learn about the entire process, from corralling and slaughtering sea turtles to the canning of their meat.
Historically, the kraals, or holding pens, were built along the waterfront to keep live turtles before processing. The meat was canned and sold to cooks, who used it primarily for turtle soup. Meanwhile, the shells were crafted into goods like eyeglass frames, combs, and jewelry—items that are now commonly made from plastic.
Today, the museum serves as an educational reminder of this bygone industry and highlights the ecological consequences of exploiting sea turtle populations for consumption and trade. It offers valuable insights into the importance of conservation and protecting marine life for future generations.
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/turtle-cannery-museum
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