About Us
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In 1946, Benjamin Chernin, who had recently retired due to health reasons, bought a small sea shell business. His oldest son, Harry, attending University of Florida, came home to help his Dad with the business. The business started (with orange crates holding the files) as a very “hands-on” operation. The business was named Beachcombers Novelty Company.

Shortly thereafter, Ben’s nephew, Dewey joined Beachcombers. Harry’s brother, Chick, upon graduation from University of Florida, entered into the business. The “Chernin men” worked very hard. From cleaning the shells to driving the trucks they did it all. One week they would embark on a sales trip up the east or west coast of Florida taking orders from the customers and the next week delivering the order to the customer. Ben began traveling further abroad to find less common shells to add to their extensive inventory of shells, jewelry findings, shell handicrafts and craft supplies. As the business continued to grow, gifts were added to the line of merchandise Beachcombers carried.

In 1970, the business had grown so large with a very diverse product mix, the shell and findings portion of the business was sold and we became The Beachcombers International Inc. The family members participating in Beachcombers grew with the addition of the next generation; Chick’s son and daughter, Mark and Annette as well as Harry’s three daughters, Leslie, Nancy and Betsy, all joined the business. Chick’s wife, Helen and son-in-law, John and Harry’s wife Mary Charles, and son-in-law, Joe have also made valuable contributions to the business with their talents. We are proud of the business Ben Chernin began over 60 years ago which has flourished and become one of the leaders in the Gift and Souvenir industry.