David Neubig
Finding Friendship Oral History Project
The Finding Friendship Oral History Project is a joint effort of the Friendship Museum and the Friendship Village School, directed by Sally Merrick, museum volunteer, and Gaylea Hynd, teacher. In 2003-2004 sixth grade students conducted taped interviews of three generations of lobstermen and women, as well as others associated with the lobstering industry. Printed copies of the interviews and CDs of the printed transcripts are available at the Friendship Museum in Friendship, Maine.
Randall
David Neubig, born on March 29, 1965, is a seasoned lobsterman from Friendship, Maine. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the lobstering business, with five generations residing in the area, it was only natural for David to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. At the age of 15, in 1981, he embarked on his lobstering journey, driven by his love for the ocean and the allure of being his own boss. Throughout his career, David has not limited himself to a single profession. In addition to lobstering, he has dabbled in various jobs, including brick masonry, wood cutting, and clamming. Outside of work, David enjoys a range of hobbies, such as hunting, car racing, bowling, and snowmobiling.
Scope and Content Note
David shares his motivations for entering the lobstering industry, attributing his family's influence and his affinity for the ocean as key factors. He recounts his early experiences as a young lobsterman equipped with limited resources and describes the gradual evolution of his profession over the years. David details the significant changes he has witnessed in the tools and techniques employed in lobstering. From a small wooden boat with a modest outboard motor to a larger fiberglass vessel equipped with advanced devices like radar, bottom finders, radios, and safety equipment, David's equipment has adapted to meet the demands of his trade. He discusses the crucial role of traps in catching lobsters, outlining their construction, dimensions, and the process of tending to them. Furthermore, David shares the nuances of lobstering, including the seasonal variations in lobster migration and the need to adapt trap placements accordingly. He emphasizes the importance of bait and its impact on the catch, sharing his preferred bait options. David provides insights into the challenges and rewards of lobstering throughout the seasons and highlights the dynamic nature of the business. This interview offers a valuable glimpse into the life and experiences of David Neubig, shedding light on the evolving landscape of lobstering and the dedication required to thrive in this demanding profession.
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