Virginia Oliver celebrates another remarkable birthday
Rockland, Maine native Virginia Oliver has more than earned the title of Lobster Lady. Not only is it lobstering a task she took up when she was only eight, but Virginia continues to haul the sea creatures as she celebrates turning 103!
As Virginia reaches this remarkable birthday, at the same time, she also marks 95 years of continuing this family tradition. It and her incredibly long life are inexorably tied together, according to Virginia, who marks 103 by reflecting on her lifestyle, the grueling schedule she maintains, what she’s learned, and the incredible nature of her ongoing journey.
Tuesday, June 6 saw Virginia Oliver turn 103. She could very understandably slow down from here and turn in her net, but according to birthday party attendee Wayne Gray, the documentarian behind the film Conversations with the Lobster Lady, she has renewed her lobster license for the 2023 season. She is living up to the message written in red icing across her birthday cake: “Ginny Making The World A Better Place Since 1920.”
Rockland has been in Virginia’s blood since the beginning; she was born there on Claredon Street, at her parents’ home. Today, she lives in a different home but on that very same street – and this street has seen Virginia raise four children of her own, all of whom lobster too.
Back in 2021, Virginia discussed just what it is about lobstering that she likes so much. “Being the boss,” she listed. This is consistent with her go-getter attitude, always taking the initiative and an active role in whatever task she can.
“Virginia, who still does her own cooking, didn’t have to bake this cake, but she did slice it for members of the Society and her daughter and three sons,” Gray shared of her birthday party. It’s just one small part of her very active schedule, which begins at 3:30 am, maintaining her 400 lobster traps alongside her son, now 80 years old himself. When all these preparations are complete, they set out on a 30-foot boat to begin the actual work.
“All my life, I’ve done this kind of thing. I never get seasick,” said Virginia. For those wondering how she does it, Virginia says, “You have to keep moving. I intend to do this until I die.” Although she proudly asserts that she’s completely independent, Virginia does add that she loves being with her son, highlighting the importance of a well-rounded, actively and socially-enriched life.
A very happy 103rd birthday to Virginia Oliver, and many more!
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