Our story begins in 1791 on Chincoteague Island, Virginia - on the Eastern Shore and just off the Delmarva peninsula. We meet a local African American boy named Thomas Downing. As the child of emancipated slaves, he grew up working on the water and tonging for oysters. But, that's only the beginning.

THE BIVALVE TRAIL is produced by the Chincoteague Island Theatre Company and our parent organization, the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. Podcast artwork by Angela Heady. Recording and post-production by Longtayle Studios. Music by Bill Troxler.

For sources used, please visit chincoteagueca.org/bivalvetrail.html

It's now 1820, Thomas Downing is working in New York City as a registered oysterman, selling his crops to local businessmen for their oyster cellars. Oyster Cellars were seedy and vulgar; pickpocketing was common, male patrons were disorderly and obscene. Thomas wanted to make oysters a luxury food and serve them in a business of elegance and class. He revolutionized the oyster industry and became a local and international sensation in the process.

Additional vocals in this episode are from Bill Troxler and Thom Nolan. 

THE BIVALVE TRAIL is produced by the Chincoteague Island Theatre Company and our parent organization the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. Researched, written, and presented by Lexi Hubb. Recording and post-production by Longtayle Studios. Music by Bill Troxler. Artwork by Angie Heady. Project partner is the Museum of Chincoteague Island.

For sources used, visit www.chincoteagueca.org/bivalvetrail.html

By 1842, the oyster industry in New York City was generating annually around $6 million. Thomas Downing is a local and international sensation and Downing's Oyster House is the most favorite resort of the distinguished and influential in society. Downing used his wealth from supplying oysters in every style to help African American charities and promote social change for a more equitable America.

THE BIVALVE TRAIL is produced by the Chincoteague Island Theatre Company and parent organization, the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. Project partner is the Museum of Chincoteague Island. Researched, written, and told by Lexi Hubb. Podcast artwork by Angela Heady. Recording and post-production by Longtayle Studios. Music by Bill Troxler.

The voice of Thomas Downing by James Rich. Additional vocals from Donna West, Thom Nolan, Bill Troxler, and Justin Aruck.

For sources used, please visit chincoteagueca.org/bivalvetrail.html