Conch Shell Blowing Contest Produces Interesting Noise
KEY WEST (CBS4) – If you heard loud honking coming from the south on Saturday it was not a colossal traffic jam, it was the sound of the 49th Annual Key West Conch Shell Blowing Contest.
The quirky contest draws people eager to share in a Key West tradition by attempting to make music by using fluted, pink-lined conch shells.
Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, and held in the tropical garden of Key West's Oldest House, the competition salutes the historic importance of the conch in the Keys.
The shell of the sturdy sea mollusk that also is used in tasty Key West treats such as salad and croquettes is why the area is known as the "Conch Republic."
The musical event attracted all age groups from toddlers to seniors who took turns honking, squawking and sometimes producing recognizable tunes on the shells.
Judges evaluated the quality, duration, loudness and novelty of the… erm… music produced. Winners took home ribbons in several categories.
Kate Miano tooted a conch shell Saturday, winning the women's division.
Centuries ago, natives from the Calusa tribe blew conch shells to communicate over distance, and sailors used them as maritime signaling devices.
