CEDAR RIVER — A summer staple is coming back to area this weekend and its great for the whole family (even your dog on a leash). West Shore Fishing Museum will open its doors once again for the summer on Saturday, May 25. This will be the museum’s 27th year since opening its doors in 1997.

This restored home and fishery of Charles and Auora Bailey is a great place to learn about the history of commercial fishing as well as the Baileys. West Shore was one of the area’s largest fisheries from 1893 to 1950. The daughter of Charles and Auoroa, E. Leone Bailey willed that after her death in 1994 the home, fishery and 100 acres of the land would be given to the county to use as a museum and a natural area. The will and memory of E. Leone Bailey and her parents still live on as their home and memories are preserved in the registered historic site.

This site (open for the summer) offers a chance to step back into history with experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. It has a restored home, two authentic display buildings, seven fishing vessels ranging from 20 to 45 feet in two pavilions, a mile of wooded and shore trails, lovely gardens and grounds, and a vintage gift shop. It is an ideal place for a multigenerational family afternoon.

The summer schedule will include the perennial plant sale held on Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9, from 1 to 4 p.m. Heritage Crafts Day with a silent auction, select vendors, and live demonstrations is scheduled for Sunday, July 28. The season finale and annual raffle will be on Sunday, Sept. 1. This special museum offers a tour of indoor/outdoor homestead museum that highlights commercial fishing history of the West Shore of Green Bay. The hours are Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. (Central Time) or by appointment. The museum is located adjacent to Bailey Park at N5146 M-35, 15 miles north of Menominee, Mich.

Vice President of the Board, Noreen Johnson said that this museum is different than any in the state.

“We have the largest collection of commercial fishing boats in Michigan,” Johnson said.

Johnson added that she is happy to be back for the summer and encourages families to swing by.

“It’s a great place for family bonding, especially if multiple generations can come,” Johnson said.

The sites, scenes and interactions are all performed and maintained by dedicated volunteers. Johnson says that new volunteers are always welcome to assist on Wednesday workdays as well host on the weekends. for more information, please call 715-923-9756 or contact the West Shore Fishing Museum on Facebook.