Kenneth Shepherd

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Oral History Collection - Fishing and Fisheries

Description

This collections contains recordings of interviews with Woods Hole residents and visiting scientists, as part of the Woods Hole Historical Museum’s Oral History Collection.  For more information, visit: woodsholemuseum.org.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
11-16-1981
Principal Investigator
Audio
Biographical Sketch

Kenneth Shepherd is a seasoned fisherman with a deep connection to the fishing industry in Woods Hole. Born in 1915, he has witnessed significant changes and challenges throughout his fishing career. Kenneth started fishing in 1934 and became an integral part of the fishing community in Woods Hole. He has fished for various species, including yellowtail flounder, cod, haddock, and butterfish. Kenneth has experienced firsthand the impact of regulations, fuel prices, and changing fish populations on the fishing industry. Apart from fishing, he also worked at Edwards Boatyard, where he helped build boats. Kenneth has valuable knowledge and stories to share about the fishing industry, the fishing techniques used in the past, and the challenges faced by fishermen. His experiences provide a glimpse into the history of the fishing community in Woods Hole and the changes it has undergone over the years.

Summary of the Interview:
Kenneth Shepherd discusses various topics related to fishing and boats. He mentions the idea of keeping the boats inside a breakwater and adding a new bridge. Kenneth Shepherd recalls working on an oceanographic vessel discusses efforts to understand how fish get oxygen into their swim bladders and mentions building a shack for experimentation. He recalls an expedition where lobsters and crabs were obtained from deep waters. He also mentions a failed attempt to develop a fishery for lobsters and crabs. The conversation shifts to the topic of fishing for king crab in Alaska and the difference in meat quality compared to other types of crab. Kenneth Shepherd expresses his desire to visit Alaska but feels limited due to his age and physical condition. The discussion turns to the water shortage and the concern for water availability in the country. They briefly mention Kenneth Shepherd's nephew, Gary Shepherd, who is involved in fisheries courses and research at Rutgers. They discuss the fishing fleet and docking facilities in Woods Hole, with Kenneth Shepherd suggesting improvements such as extending the dock and adding lights and water. They mention Sam Cahoon and the development of the town dock. They also talk about the controversy surrounding the ice house and its eventual burning down. The conversation continues with discussions about fishing techniques, including using gill nets for catching fish. They mention the fleets that used to come to Woods Hole. They discuss the ownership of the fishing fleet and the property owned by the Bureau of Fisheries. Kenneth Shepherd mentions various individuals he worked with, including Mr. Nietzsche and Van Damme, who were involved in fish sampling and analysis. Towards the end of the interview, they discuss photographs and documents related to the fishing industry.


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