Johnny Terwilliger
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
On July 13, 2000, Matthew Barr interviewed Johnny Terwilliger for the Wild Caught oral history project in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina. Terwilliger discusses the history of his family's restaurant, which was founded by his grandfather in 1946 and has been in continuous operation since. He explains that after his grandfather sold the restaurant to another uncle, Terwilliger eventually purchased it and has owned it for approximately 14 years. The interview highlights Terwilliger’s pride in the restaurant, including its strong local connections and the role of longtime employee Bernice, who has worked there since its opening. Terwilliger describes Bernice’s pivotal role in the community, particularly in keeping the Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival running, and how she remains a key figure in the restaurant despite her current role as a dishwasher. Terwilliger reflects on his life growing up in the small fishing town of Sneads Ferry, sharing his appreciation for the tranquility and close-knit community. He mentions his lifelong work in the local fishing industry, including his experiences working at the fish house and on shrimp boats. Terwilliger also talks about the popularity of his restaurant, which attracts customers from all over the world, many of whom sign a guest book noting their visits. He describes the fresh, local seafood the restaurant serves, emphasizing the importance of quality and the hands-on approach he takes in all aspects of the business, from washing dishes to overseeing daily operations. In the latter part of the interview, Terwilliger touches on the changes Sneads Ferry has undergone, noting an increase in tourism and traffic but expressing satisfaction that the town’s fishing heritage and charm remain intact.
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