Fishermen Interviews of the U.S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries, 1893-1895
Collection DOI:
Principal Investigator:
William Wakeham , Richard Rathbun
In the late 19th century, the U.S. Fish Commission conducted numerous interviews with fishermen throughout the northeast U.S. including cod and mackerel fishermen from New York, New England and Nova Scotia. Most fishermen interviewed in the 1890s by the commission were over 50 years of age and recollected changes in the marine environment during their lifetimes. These interviews, or oral histories, are an excellent source for observations of Gulf of Maine fisheries. They provide first-hand accounts and observations of fish behavior and fishing activity on specific fishing grounds such as Stellwagen Bank. Most interviewees discuss the migratory patterns and behaviors of mackerel on the east coast. In addition, the fishermen offer descriptions of fish and catch sizes as well as theories for the decline in cod and mackerel in the 19th century.
David Tarr, of James G. Tarr & Bro. in Gloucester, MA was interviewed by William Wakeham and Hugh M. Smith. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with fisherman John F. Critchett of Gloucester, MA by William Wakeham and Hugh M. Smith. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with Captain George M. McClain of Rockport, MA by William Wakeham, Richard Rathbun and Hugh M. Smith of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with fisherman Russell D. Terry of Gloucester, MA by William Wakeham and Hugh M. Smith of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Captain A. B. Crosby was a seasoned fisherman based in Yarmouth Bar, Yarmouth, N.S.. He was known for his extensive knowledge and experience in mackerel fishing, which typically began in mid-April and ended early in July. Crosby's fishing method involved the use of a net, which was set up in the middle of April and taken down in May. The first catch of Crosby's net varied from year to year, with the first pursing usually taking place in mid-May.
Interview with fisherman John A. McKinnon of Gloucester, MA by William Wakeham, Richard Rathbun and Hugh M. Smith of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with fisherman Norman J.B. Tooker of A.F. Stoneman & Co., Yarmouth, N.S. by William Wakeham and Richard Rathbun of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with George Dores of Lunenburg, N.S. with William Wakeham and Richard Rathbun of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with fisherman Levi N. McLean of Gloucester, MA by William Wakeham and Hugh M. Smith of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
Interview with fisherman John F. Vanteir of Gloucester, MA by William Wakeham and Hugh M. Smith of the U.S. Fish Commission. Interview contains descriptions of the mackerel fishery.
