About this Artifact

This workbench is a tangible piece of history!

Keeper Bessey was indeed a “jack of all trades”! Not only was he Keeper of the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar for many years, but he built boats on the side, owned a pineapple plantation at one time, and was a fishing guide for President Grover Cleveland.

Preserve the legacy of this fascinating pioneer in our community by adopting his very own workbench. This workbench is a tangible piece of history, reflecting the multifaceted life and contributions of Keeper Bessey to our heritage