Scavenger Hunt Makes History Fun at Museum

By MADDY VITALE The Sea Isle City Historical Museum makes learning about the town’s rich history a bit more exciting with a Scavenger Hunt. Each summer season, beginning in May, the museum offers the game to families who stop in to learn about Sea Isle. Each participant receives a worksheet, which has clues about what they are to look for. The game is geared toward children, but people of all ages love it, too, explained Ron Kovatis, president of the museum. “It is a popular, longtime tradition,” he said. “Everyone who does the scavenger hunts gets their picture taken and they even get a prize.” Museum President Ron Kovatis speaks April 29 during an Arbor Day celebration. To date, there have been about 300 people who have participated in the museum’s scavenger hunt. “The neat thing is everyone who does the scavenger hunt becomes part of Sea Isle’s history,” Kovatis pointed out. “They get their pictures taken and kids can look up their photos, and someday, they can show their own kids when they do the scavenger hunts.” There are many clues to go along with the many items and exhibits tucked in the museum space. Clues could be about the museum's vintage wedding gown collection, a lifeguard display or the military uniforms. “There could be clues about our antique doll collection, old photos or the barber shop exhibit," Kovatis said. The museum is a repository of thousands of artifacts from Sea Isle City's 140-year history. The shore town has some unique pieces. “Through the years, we have had various items wash up, including whale bones and pieces of shipwrecks,” Kovatis noted. Whatever the clues and whatever the answers, Kovatis said children and their families will have an enjoyable time. “We try to make it more of a personal experience for everyone who does the scavenger hunt. That is why we take their pictures,” he said. “It is more personal than just looking at history through a glass case. It is a personal experience.” Abby Powell, who is active in the museum and is the former president of the museum, called the scavenger hunt a popular tradition. “The scavenger hunt has been a huge hit at the museum for eight summers,” Powell said. “Everyone really enjoys searching the museum for all the items that are in a list that we give them. At the end of the hunt, they can pick out a prize from our Treasure Chest.” Powell said she noticed something else about the event. “All ages seem to have a great time learning about the items, and the history of Sea Isle,” she added. For more information about the Sea Isle Historical Museum visit www.seaislemuseum.com Barbara McKeefery, left, and Abby Powell admire some of the vintage Christmas decorations on display at the museum in 2021.