Betsy Pye
The Working Waterfront Festival Community Documentation Project
The Working Waterfront Festival Community Documentation Project is an ongoing oral history project documenting the history and culture of the commercial fishing industry and other port trades. The project was begun in 2004 in conjunction with the Working Waterfront Festival, an annual, education celebration of commercial fishing culture which takes place in New Bedford, MA. Interviewees have included a wide range of individuals connected to the commercial fishing industry and/or other aspects of the port through work or familial ties. While the majority of interviewees are from the port of New Bedford, the project has also documented numerous individuals from other ports around the country. Folklorist and Festival Director Laura Orleans and Community Scholar/Associate Director Kirsten Bendiksen are Project Leaders. The original recordings reside at the National Council for the Traditional Arts in Maryland with listening copies housed at the Festival's New Bedford office.
Azure Dee Westwood
Betsy Pye, a New Bedford native, has been a steadfast presence in the ocean-oriented community of New Bedford. Born and raised in the heart of the coastal city, she has a deep connection to the maritime heritage. Her husband’s ancestors were also from the area. She is an active advocate for the fishing industry.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Betsy Pye, conducted by Julie Olson on September 23, 2007, at The Working Waterfront Festival, sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of Betsy's life. Throughout the interview, Betsy shares personal anecdotes that illuminate her experiences. From detailing her husband's naval service and English heritage to discussing her role model, Deb Schrader, and their involvement in advocating for the fishing industry, the interview paints a comprehensive picture of her experiences. The challenges of maintaining stability during her husband's reduced days at sea and juggling family responsibilities emerge as central themes. Betsy also delves into her engagement with the New Bedford Oceanarium and Shore Support, showcasing her commitment to marine education and support networks. The interview reveals her concerns about media portrayal of the fishing industry and the distinction between the groundfishing and scallop communities.
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