In winter, those that are not still shrimping, turn to oyster cultivation and dredging besides trapping. They trap such fur bearing animals as otter, mink, muskrat, raccoon and presently even the nutria. The Islenos are excellent boat builders, from the simple-pirogue to the large, steel South Atlantic Trawler used for offshore shrimping. In the coastal marshes, Islenos use a form of shallow-draft skiff, equipped with butterfly nets, and locally called the Delacroix Skiff . Their busy way of life and sometimes lack of contact with others helped to keep the Islenos unique, thus cultivating closer family ties.
Families always help each other.
They were and still are a truly happy but hard working people. The purpose of this genealogical-based heritage club, formed in September 1995, is to document their Canary Island heritage, solidify traditions, educate people outside of their community of their existence, and to leave a legacy of their traditions for posterity. They do this through live exhibitions and festival presentations of Canary Islands arts, crafts, food traditions, storytelling, music and dances. The exhibit at the Archives showcases members skills through various media including painting and wood carving. It ends on December 28th.