Mildred Wells
Oral History Collection - Fishing and Fisheries
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.
National Capital Contractor
On February 5, 1981, Robert Livingstone, Jr., a retired fishery biologist from the National Marine Fisheries Service, interviewed Mildred Wells at her home in Falmouth Heights as part of a project documenting the history of the fishing industry in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Wells, originally from New Bedford, moved to Woods Hole in the late 1920s to work as a bookkeeper for Sam Cahoon’s fish market. In the interview, Wells discusses her responsibilities managing accounts, handling sales, and paying fishermen, providing insight into the daily operations of Cahoon’s business. She recalls the economic hardships of the Great Depression and emphasizes Cahoon’s generosity in supporting local families. Wells describes the variety of fish and shellfish processed at the market, including cod, haddock, swordfish, lobsters, and scallops, which were shipped daily to markets in New York and Boston. She also reflects on changes in fishing practices, the role of fishermen from Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape, and the impact of seasonal fishing patterns. Beyond her work, Wells shares personal anecdotes about community life in Woods Hole, including social events, church activities, and interactions with local families. She reminisces about her marriage, family losses, and friendships with the Cahoon family, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the fishing community. The interview provides a rich account of Woods Hole’s maritime economy, the resilience of its fishing industry, and the role of women in its commercial operations.
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