Evan Dwyer

This is a small museum in Pretlow library. There is not much info about it anywhere. But, it keeps the same hours as the library (though it is volunteer run and doesn't always open on time) and is to the right of the main entrance - so if you have 15-20 minutes and want to learn more about local history, this is a nice pit stop. Exhibits cover the naval history of the area, the theme park that used to define OV, some of the major storms from the past, the origins of Ocean View, and how it was affected by WWII, as well as local lore and school memorabilia. The main exhibits are a car and a boat from the defunct theme park. They do a lot with only a small space, but it feels maybe a little too cramped and the flow of information is a little convoluted as a result. Overall though, a stop any history buff in the 757 should make if they're at all familiar with Ocean View, Norfolk, or Willoughby Bay.

Drove like crazy down from Seattle bound for Virginia so I could get here before last admission on a Saturday (which is 3:30, according to their website). Arrived at 2:45. Didn’t matter, they were closed for no reason whatsoever. Doors locked, not a soul in sight. Nothing on their Facebook or their phone message. Waste of my time. Totally pathetic and disrespectful, dishonest way to run a museum. I’m livid. Really wanted to check this out too, but now I’ll never get to. Not coming back just to chance this place being closed again.