What Matters Most: Passing the Torch at Blue Crab Bay

Photo by Jay Diem
Blue Crab Bay founder Pamela Barefoot (left) and new owner Elizabeth Lankford both have deep local roots on Eastern Shore Virginia, along with a commitment to the company’s future.
Photo by Jay Diem
Gift boxes feature a wide range of snacks, seasonings and condiments to keep memories of the shore on the table year-round.
Photo by Jay Diem
Blue Crab Bay also offers a selection of jewelry.
Photo by Jay Diem
Award-winning specialty nuts and snacks are some of the most popular Blue Crab Bay items.
Photo by Jay Diem
The company’s trademarked stoneware pottery is designed locally, paying homage to its namesake Chesapeake shellfish.
Barefoot, at far right, at the first Blue Crab Bay store in Onancock, Virginia, 1986.
Photo by Jay Diem
Today, Blue Crab Bay has a 24,000 square-foot warehouse in Accomack Industrial Park, and remains an important part of the history, economy and future of Eastern Shore Virginia.
Photo by Jay Diem
Barefoot receiving the 1991 American Institute of Wine & Food Award of Excellence, presented by Julia Child.
Photo by Jay Diem
The Specialty Food Association inducted Barefoot into the Hall of Fame in 2016.
Photo by Jay Diem
Lankford (shown here at the 2017 Fancy Food Show) plans to expand and enhance Blue Crab Bay’s presence nationally and internationally.
Photo by Jay Diem
Barefoot has stayed on this year to help Lankford, who became the official owner at the end of 2016, learn the ropes.