Crystal Jordan, 33 years old at the time of the interview, is the owner-operator of a blue crab and oyster vessel in Solomon's Island, MD. As the daughter of a fishermen, she grew up on the water, and took over her father's operation at the age of 20 when he passed away from cancer. Her vessel is called "Some Beach." 

Scope and Content Note

In her interview, Crystal Jordan talks about overcoming the loss of her father, finding her own way as a commercial waterwoman, and raising her own son on the water as a single mother. Jordan starts by noting that she prefers the term "waterwoman" as it reflects her work on the water. Jordan describes growing up in Edgewater, an area that is fading out in terms of commercial fisheries. She explains that the decline is due to people buying houses on the water and pushing out marinas, as well as the preference for sailboats and yachts over commercial fishing boats. Jordan expresses frustration with the lack of appreciation for the work of commercial fishermen and the impact it has on the local economy. She mentions that certain areas, like Crisfield, still have a strong respect for watermen and support the local industry. Jordan says she enjoys her work as a waterwoman but acknowledges the downsides, such as the maintenance and costs associated with the boat and gear and mentions trotlining as a less expensive alternative to crab potting.

Jordan shares the story of her boat, which originally belonged to her father and underwent renovations. After her father's health issues and eventual passing, Jordan took over the boat. She says that the biggest challenge she faced initially was rebuilding the rig with limited resources. Despite doubts and financial struggles, Jordan says that she persisted in her work, relying on her connections with other watermen for support. She also expresses her love for the water and mentions that she has always enjoyed working on the boat, finding it physically demanding yet rewarding. Jordan describes how her dedication to her work paid off, and she now feels confident in her ability to support herself and her seven-year-old child. Jordan describes how she learned oystering from her son's father and considers it an easier but equally enjoyable activity. The crabbing season generally runs from April to November, while oystering occurs from October to March, with different methods and areas for each.