Duke of Gloucester 12 Oz Oyster Tinfrom Hayes Virgina

A vintage Owens & Blake Seafood Inc. oyster can from Hayes, Virginia, a classic piece of Chesapeake Bay seafood history. These tins were used by small, family‑run shucking houses that supplied fresh salt‑water oysters to markets across Tidewater Virginia. Surviving examples are increasingly scarce, especially with strong color and readable text.
This tin features the original “Fresh Shucked Salt Water Oysters” label with the Owens & Blake Hayes, VA address, sanitation guarantee, and “Keep Well Iced” instruction — all hallmarks of mid‑century regional oyster packing. The graphics and typography reflect the practical, workaday style of Gloucester County seafood houses, making it a perfect display piece for collectors of maritime Americana.
 
Great for:
- Coastal or nautical décor  
- Chesapeake Bay history displays  
- Oyster tin collectors  
- Restaurant or seafood‑themed interiors  
- Folk art assemblage or shelf styling  
 
Condition  
Displays well with expected age wear: light scuffs, small scratches, and surface patina consistent with use in a working oyster house. Colors remain strong and readable. Please see photos for details.
 
Dimensions  
2¾ inches tall and 3⅜ inches in diameter.
 
A genuine piece of Tidewater Virginia seafood heritage with strong regional appeal.