Shucking oysters

photograph

Photo, oystering (Bluepoints Co., Inc. Coll., W. Sayville, NY). Caption attached at bottom: "MANY ARE SHUCKED -- A fine technique is required to remove the oyster from his shell. First you knock the "beak" with a hammer. A sharp knife is then inserted in the opening and the shell is pried open. Despite many attempts, a really successful substitute for hand methods has yet to be invented A good shucker can open 600 oysters per hour or three gallons. Women frequently work on shucking lines." Rubberstamped on back "PHOTO BY/ CARROLL VAN ARK". Dated on back 1945.