Dorothy Jean Norris
Wild Caught: The Life and Struggles of an American Fishing Town
For 300 years, the fishermen of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina have practiced sustainable, small- scale commercial fishing, passing on the traditional lore of the sea from generation to generation. In the early 21st century, imported farm-raised shrimp, skyrocketing coastal development, and complex regulations threatened to push many fishermen to the brink of disaster. Wild Caught captures the wisdom and resilience of an extraordinary community.
National Capital Contracting
Matthew Barr interviewed Dorothy Jean Norris for the Wild Caught Oral History Project. Dorothy Jean Norris, married to John Norris, has lived in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, for over 34 years. She grew up in Richlands, North Carolina, and moved to Sneads Ferry when she married John at the age of 16. The couple has three children, all of whom are now grown. The interview begins with Dorothy reflecting on the ups and downs of being married to a fisherman. She describes the early years when John was frequently away at sea, leaving her to manage the household and raise their children. Dorothy provides a detailed account of her family's life. Their 23-year-old son, Liston, has followed in his father's footsteps by working as a channel net fisherman. Dorothy expresses her concerns about the unpredictability of the fishing industry and her initial hopes for a different career path for her son. However, she acknowledges the deep connection to fishing that runs in the family. The discussion moves to Dorothy's personal experiences working as a waitress at the Golden Corral in Jacksonville, a job she loves for the interaction it provides with people. She talks about the sense of community in Sneads Ferry, where everyone knows each other and neighbors readily offer help in times of need. Dorothy also reflects on the dangers of fishing, her worries about John's safety, and the relief she feels knowing he now carries a cell phone to stay in touch. She recounts her occasional visits to the dock to watch him unload his catch, emphasizing the hard physical labor involved in fishing and the pride she feels in his work. The interview concludes with Dorothy discussing John's dual role as a fisherman and a preacher. Initially, she was apprehensive about being a preacher's wife due to the potential for hurt and criticism but has since embraced it, appreciating the support from their church family.
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