Experienced and Knowledgeable Oyster Farmers
The oyster farmers at Madhouse Oysters represent the heart and soul of our meticulous cultivation process. With a profound connection to the sea, our farmers are dedicated to nurturing and harvesting premium oysters in diverse coastal environments.
From precisely selecting the ideal breeding stock to ensuring optimal growth and flavor development, our farmers exemplify a deep commitment to preserving tradition while meeting the exacting standards of today’s seafood lovers. Read on to learn more about our team.
Ted Cooney, Founder
Ted’s a native Marylander, married to the same wonderful North Country girl for over 20 years, Becky. Ted has now sailed off into retirement. He enjoys traveling and spending time with his three kids and their family and friends. Relaxing with his dog , Otis, is also a favorite pastime.
Scott Robinson, Sr., Partner
As a fourth-generation oysterman, for Scott Sr., working with oysters isn’t a job; it’s a way of life. During his decades on the water, Scott has dredged, hand-tonged, fished, and crabbed in all manner of weather, with each day starting hours before sunrise. Scott is what’s known to the locals as an “over-the-river-un.” That means he grew up across the river from Hooper’s Island, where Madhouse Oysters was founded.
After graduating from Cambridge South Dorchester High School, Scott earned his “oystering degree” out in the bay. He likes to call it Chesapeake University—an education like no other.
A Family Man
Scott met his best friend and wife, Lisa- where you see him you normally see her. They raised their three kids on the Chesapeake-just like Scott was. When the workday ends, you’ll find Scott with family, sharing a meal with his children and seven grandchildren- the most important part of his life.
Scottie Robinson, Jr., Partner
Scottie comes from a long line of Robinsons who made their living on the bay. He’s proud of that legacy. Scottie graduated in the top 50 of his class at Cambridge South Dorchester High School and later attended WyoTech for Collision Repair.
Some of Scottie’s best memories are of working the water with his dad. He started at a young age with his dad on the boat. As he grew, Scottie learned about the family heritage while working on boats to earn extra spending money. It didn’t take long to realize that his heart and future weren’t in cars. It was out on the bay with his dad.
A Loving Husband and Father
Scottie is married to Sarah, and you will often see them working together at events. They have three kids who have grown to love being on the farm. If Scottie is not on the farm, he is coaching his kids, cheering them on the sidelines, or working on cars with his buddies.
Kenneth Bradford, Farm Associate
Keeping it in the family, Kenneth is Scottie’s brother in law. Kenneth has roots in the water from his grandfather, Bradley Bradford, who entered Tidewater Fishery, graduated from the newly formed academy (now known as the DNR). Bradley then served as the field supervisor of Oyster Propagation.
Kenneth graduated from Salisbury University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. He takes great pride in working with the “babies” and sorting the smaller oysters. He enjoys spending the summer working with his nephew, Scott III.