The Shore Village Museum was founded by Ken Black, a retired Coast Guard officer who has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work in the preservation of the country?s maritime heritage. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Lighthouse Foundation in May of 1996. In 1999, the U.S. Lighthouse Society of San Francisco presented Ken Black their annual President?s Award for raising consciousness toward lighthouses, lightships, and navigation aids.

The Museum houses a unique collection of historic artifacts that belong to the United States Coast Guard and the Lighthouse Service. It actually has one of America?s largest collections of lighthouse materials. This collection includes flashing lights, foghorns, search and rescue gear, bells, boats, and Coast Guard buoys.