Every seashell has a story, and we are lucky enough to have a seasoned storyteller in our midst to tell it.

For Islanders, at least, fossils never get old. The sixth annual National Fossil Day Thursday drew all ages to the Oak Bluffs library to marvel at ancient plants and animals preserved for millions of years in stone.

Quick response by volunteer firefighters on Barnes Road in Oak Bluffs Wednesday night saved both a summer home and a seven and a half foot triceratops skull. The skull is owned by Dr. Henry Kriegstein, a collector of rare fossils.

Fossil Fred wants you to take a trip to the past and he’s bringing along a bunch of friends to make the journey extra special.

Fossil Fred

The Vineyard Haven Public Library presents Connecting with Fossils, an interactive and illustrative talk to be given by Fred Hotchkiss on Tuesday, March 23, beginning at 7 p.m. Connecting with fossils has many dimensions including artistic inspiration and personal wonderment. No prior experience is necessary. Dr. Hotchkiss will bring an assortment of fossils he usually takes to Vineyard classrooms. Feel free to bring fossils of your own for identification.

Jostle With Fossils

Dr. Fred Hotchkiss is giving a free talk, Connecting with Fossils, at the Chilmark library on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. Connecting with fossils has many dimensions — including artistic inspiration and personal wonderment. No prior experience is necessary. Known to many young students as Fossil Fred, Dr. Hotchkiss will bring an assortment of fossils he has collected, and encourages attendees to bring any fossils that they would like to share or to ask about. For details, call 508-645-3360.