Just a While

In 1990, Bob and Ada Hellyer set anchor along the North Beach boardwalk, taking up residence in “Just A While,” a classic 1915 cottage built for life on the Bay. Mentored by local watermen, they quickly learned about the "Jimmys and Sooks", how to work the tides, setting crab pots from a small rowboat and mastering the Maryland steamedcrab tradition. This barn quilt square pays tribute to that heritage. Featuring the iconic “Blue Crab” set against the Maryland flag, it stands alongside their patio’s famous buoy-laden tree, a local boardwalk landmark loved and photographed by passersby. Together, they form a colorful salute to the waterman’s way of life. This historic cottage is a front-row seat on the Chesapeake Bay. The square can be viewed from the boardwalk in North Beach, MD at 9121 Bay Avenue.