From a Clam House to an Oyster Seed Business
/The old Williston Clam House remains as an icon building that has stood in Williston for many years. It once had a service station on that location and also sold gas. Much history can be told about that building and the people that were involved. Elmer Willis, the clam king, is the most remembered and iconic person associated with the clam house.
Today the clam house is owned by Susan and Robert Hill. Susan grew up in Williston and has now returned with her husband to turn the clam house into a growing business – Down East Mariculture Supply Co. The business’ goal is to “bring economic development, job opportunities and some maritime fun to the area.” The business is actually an oyster nursery that provides seed to those farmers throughout the eastern seaboard that farm oysters. There are several businesses Down East that have oyster farms.
Susan and Robert wanted to somehow keep the history of the clam house alive. So their project asked individuals or family of those that were associated with the clam house to donate old plates to be used in a mosaic that would represent the history of the clam house. Clams in the mosaic that are shown spilling from the burlap bags are reclaimed from the property. The project is now virtually complete and is absolutely beautiful and certainly is an example of what the clam house produced.
The idea of the mosaic was taken from a photograph provided by the daughter of Elmer Willis, Nancy Willis Lewis. Women were an important part of many “seafood” houses that opened clams and scallops. They were a vital part of the business and worked tirelessly every day. The three ladies depicted in the mosaic are L-R, Lula Willis Fulcher, Rena Wade Piner and Lela Lawrence Thomas.
The mosaic was created by LeNelle Davis. Many tributes to her as the final product is a great example of the seafood industry of Down East.
