The BaileyMatthews Shell Museum

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is a non-profit organization located in Sanibel, Florida. Employing 19 people, the museum generates over $10,000 annually. The museum provides visitors with unique exhibits showcasing a diverse collection of mollusks. These exhibits delve into various themes, including the role of shells in art, history, their natural habitats, rare specimens, fossil shells, and common Southwest Florida shells. The museum offers several interactive elements. A dedicated learning lab features engaging displays, games, and a tank showcasing native mollusks, providing hands-on learning opportunities for children. Visitors can also enjoy educational videos, including “Mollusks in Action” and “Trails and Tails” shown hourly, along with a continuous loop children's video. Visitors can further explore their interests in the museum store, offering a wide variety of shell-themed books and marine-related gifts. The museum's website, shellmuseum.org, provides more information.