JUNE FILM NIGHT: Ocean City History Films

Saturday, June 21st

Doors 5:30PM

Sponsored by the Town of Ocean City, this is a Season 9 showcase of short documentaries about Ocean City/Ocean City-adjacent history. Films explore an array of topics to educate, entertain, and inform. Total showtime is approximately 99 minutes.

150 Years of Smiles 

Directed by Fiona O’Brien.

A brief history of Maryland’s coastal resort town Ocean City. An economy built by influential women in the 20th century, 10 miles of beach, and countless memories culminate in this short documentary.13 minutes.

Eyes of the Fort

Directed by Megan Dodson.

During World War II, fire control towers were built along the Maryland and Delaware coast to defend against German ships attacking the United States coastline. Eyes of the Fort, tells the story of the towers and how the Army’s Coast Artillery Corps protected the United States during some of the darkest days of World War II. 9 minutes.

The Conner Stories

Directed by Don Lehman.

This film features brother and sister, Bob and Barbara Conner, who were born and raised in OceanCity. Their parents, Robert and Shirley owed the Conner’s Inn on 10th Street. The Conner family lived in the Inn which was mostly managed by Mrs.Conner. Robert was an electrician and later, an electrical inspector. Bob and Barbara share stories with Don and Gwendolyn Lehman about growing up in Ocean City during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. 15 minutes.

Greetings from Ocean City Maryland

Directed by Jesse Bowes. 

A found art film collecting 100 years of Ocean City, MD as collected by 100 post cards. 7 minutes. 

Tales from the Dock: The Legacy of Hooper’s Crab House

Directed by Maurice Waters.

a heartfelt exploration of tradition, resilience, and the powerful bonds that tie a community together. This 13-minute documentary takes viewers on an inspiring journey through the story of Hooper’s Crab House, a cherished family-owned establishment. Through vibrant storytelling and personal reflections, the film brings to life the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic seafood restaurant. Anchored by the passionate voice of owner Royette Shepard, the narrative captures the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the legacy of Hooper’s Crab House. From its humble beginnings to its vital role in the local community, “Tales from The Dock” celebrates the spirit of perseverance and the enduring value of staying true to one’s roots. With stunning visuals, engaging interviews, and an undeniable sense of warmth, this documentary serves as an ode to the remarkable power of connection and tradition. 13 minutes.

The Henry Hotel

Directed by Marlon Wallace.

A historian tells a young filmmaker about Charles T. Henry, the man behind an important piece of African American folklore in Ocean City, Maryland. The filmmaker then imagines what Charles went through, nearly 100 years ago, including rules of segregation, in order to create the now famous landmark that bears his name. 18 minutes.

Down on the Boardwalk

Directed by Davis Mears. 

A brief history of the Ocean City, MD boardwalk.  3 minutes. 

Unparallel’d Butchery: the Assateague 20

Directed by B.L. Strang-Moya.

In January of 1650, Colonel Henry Norwood’s party of 19 English refugees were stranded on the Delmarva coast… Only after an already harrowing months-long sail wrought with storms and starvation. As depicted in Norwood’s A Voyage to Virginia, this film recounts his horrifying journey and unlikely survival. 14 minutes.