St. Croix is an island in the Caribbean Sea surrounded by beautiful azure seawater, sand, and beaches. Many of our seashores have different types of sand dollars and seashells, such as the nerite, conch, and cowrie. Over the years these shells have been collected, used for building, decoration and also taken off the island.  Dredging, over-fishing, and pollution have caused a decline in our shell populations.  We have established a seashell museum to highlight and preserve these treasures.

Our exhibits include glass-covered display cases filled with local and international shells. Here viewers are allowed to see the seashells, labeled with their common and scientific names. 

Some seashells are available during programs for participants to touch and examine more closely. Details about the ecology and the historical and cultural uses of the seashells are also highlighted to better understand and appreciate the shells and the organisms that created them.

Equally important, we provide information on local rules and regulations so that this valuable resource can be protected. The seashells that are exhibited come from a variety of sources.  Some seashells are from the Department of Planning and Natural Resources and our own collections.   We encourage other St. Croix residents to loan or donate shells. Shells currently displayed in private home collections now have an appropriate venue for public appreciation.