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WJZ Looks Back On Schaefer's 'Crabby Days'

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- As we begin the remembrance of William Donald Schaefer this week, WJZ is taking a look back at the lighter side of the former mayor and governor.

Ron Matz reports many may remember the "Willie Don Crab."

In August 2005, the Willie Don Crab made its appearance in front of the Canton Safeway.

Then the state comptroller, WJZ found William Donald Schaefer in Fells Point to get his reaction.

"I'm crabby all the time, 23 out of 24 and the other hour I sleep. But it's an honor to be picked out and have your photograph taken and have it go on a crab," said Schaefer.

Schaefer loved the work of artist Jerry Breen, and the fact the crabs were being auctioned to benefit Baltimore City schools.

"They're nice, anything for promotion of the city is nice. I like it. It made me too handsome and put hair on my head. The guy who did it gave me hair and I like that man," said Schaefer.

Many other people liked the crabs around town.

"I think it's a great piece of work. He was a great governor and a great mayor," said Abe Lindemann, from Canton.

The Willie Don Crab was purchased by a local real estate developer and later installed on the parking lot of the East Side Courthouse on North Avenue.

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