Marie & Thurmond Kern
Fishing Traditions & Fishing Futures in Georgia
The goal of the “Fishing Traditions and Fishing Futures” project is to raise awareness of the experiences of commercial fishermen and their changing livelihoods in Georgia by documenting their local fisheries knowledge and perspectives about the state and fate of Georgia’s commercial fishing industry through the use of oral histories. Capturing the life stories and experiences of Georgia’s commercial fishermen is especially important since many local communities have depended on the coastal environment for their economic and cultural base for generations.
National Capital Contracting
Thurmond and Marie Kern are a couple deeply rooted in the commercial fishing industry, with a particular focus on shrimping. Thurmond hails from a family with a longstanding tradition in the industry, indicating a generational involvement that has shaped his life and career. His experiences are marked by a profound understanding of the challenges and transformations within the commercial fishing sector. Marie, alongside Thurmond, has been an integral part of the fishing community, contributing her perspective and witnessing the evolution of the industry over the years. Together, they have navigated the ebb and flow of the commercial fishing industry, confronting issues such as closed fishing grounds, pollution, and the advent of new technologies that have reshaped their livelihood. The Kerns' lives are a testament to the dedication and resilience required to sustain a family business in the face of a rapidly changing economic and environmental landscape. Their personal narrative is interwoven with the broader story of commercial fishing, reflecting the industry's past, present, and uncertain future.
Scope and Content Note
The oral history interview with Thurmond and Marie Kern provides a comprehensive overview of the commercial fishing industry's decline, with a particular emphasis on the shrimping sector. Throughout the interview, the Kerns articulate the multifaceted challenges they have faced, including the environmental impact of closed fishing grounds and pollution, which have contributed to the industry's downturn. They also address the influence of technological advancements on fishing practices and the subsequent effects on traditional methods. The conversation delves into the personal repercussions of these industry shifts, highlighting the impact on their family and the broader fishing community. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the Kerns' observations regarding the disinterest among the younger generation in pursuing careers as boat captains or engaging with the commercial fishing industry at large. The couple expresses concern over the sustainability of the industry, considering the competition with imports and the struggle to maintain the business. The interview encapsulates the Kerns' lived experiences and insights, offering a valuable perspective on the historical and contemporary issues facing commercial fishing and serves as a reflection on the cultural and economic shifts that have led to the industry's current state.
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