Our signed, Hampton Beach, VT, souvenir abalone-shell thermometer would have been an exotic item on the shelves of Mrs. Mitchell’s Gift Shop, the most likely the location that our shell was purchased a century ago. Native primarily to the Pacific Rim, abalone’s low, open spiral structure and iridescent nacre interior make it strong and beautiful; it is the source of mother of pearl. Notably, the thermometer (still working) and the hand-painted place name are relatively innocuous, leaving the shell the center of attention. Hampton Beach has been a popular tourist destination since it was formally established in 1907. In 2010 a fire and storm destroyed most of the historic building on Ocean Boulevard, the main commercial street. Mrs. Mitchell's Gift Shop and several other major landmarks have been reconstructed, but due to worldwide pressure on abalone populations, it is unlikely that full abalone shells would be used as souvenirs today. Condition: Excellent. The thermometer is attached only at the top, as original. Dimensions: Shell, 5.5" x 7". Hung, 11".