400-Pound Crab Greets Travelers At BWI Marshall Airport

HANOVER, MD — A 400-pound crab continues to cause quite a stir at BWI Marshall Airport. Named Callinectes Douglassi, the crab constantly captures the attention of travelers at the airport, but definitely for a good reason.

The stained glass sculpture was created in 1984 by local artist Jackie Leatherbury Douglass and is owned by Anne Arundel County. It was crafted from 5,000 hand-blown stained glass pieces and a welded steel frame. The stained glass Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab sculpture has greeted passersby at several spots within BWI Marshall Airport since it began calling the airport home.

"At different times during major terminal construction projects, it was located elsewhere. Since 2005, the crab has been located in Terminal A/B here at BWI Marshall Airport, which serves Southwest Airlines, the largest airline at the airport," Jonathan Dean, communications director for the airport, told Patch. "The stained glass crab is a beloved landmark and a familiar site to millions of travelers. The artwork symbolizes the state of Maryland and the natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay. Over the years, we have heard many comments and compliments about the sculpture."

Displaying art pieces at the airport, like the giant and stunningly beautiful crab, is important, Dean told Patch.

"At BWI Marshall Airport, we recognize the value of art and architectural enhancements to create a strong sense of place. Artistic creations throughout the airport convey the excitement of air travel while complementing and energizing the airport architecture. Throughout the terminal, there are murals, paintings and sculptures that celebrate our region and the wonders of travel and aviation. BWI Marshall Airport features permanent installations and a program of changing exhibitions that showcase cultural and artistic assets of Maryland and the national capital region," he said.

Learn more about this incredible art installation from the plaques found at the base of the crab sculpture.