The Bevans family established the company in October 1966, and it has remained a family business since its founding.[6][7][8] The founder, Ronald "Ronnie" Bevans has been described as the "Chesapeake's Oyster King."[9][10]
Bevans Oyster Company sells fresh-shucked Chesapeake oysters, half-shell oysters, canned oysters, and jarred oysters. It is an Interstate Certified Shellfish Shipper.[2][11][12] Outside of selling a variety of oysters, the company also sells two Menhaden bait varieties. The company is a current supplier to Ukrop's Food Group and restaurants across the United States.[13][14][15]
The company's oyster farms are located in the Yeocomico River, Potomac River, James River, Rappahannock River, and York River.[9][16] In 2002, the company also helped to restore an oyster reef in the river.[17] The company also operates a seafood cannery and packing facility and is a research partner with the State of Virginia.[1][18][19] The packing and shucking facility also processes oysters from the Long Island Sound, Kent Narrows, and Rock Hall.[9][15]
- Best Management Practices for the Virginia Shellfish Culture Industry, 2008[20]