Paul Swain, a 74-year-old male, is a retired government port agent with a rich history in the fishing industry. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Swain is of Newfoundland descent. He began his career as a fisherman and later transitioned into various roles including an auctioneer and a lumper. Swain's home port was New Bedford/Fairhaven, MA. Swain's career in the government began in 1957 as a port sampler, a role that involved taking samples from fish catches for age and growth studies. Over the years, his role evolved and changed names several times, reflecting the changing nature of government paperwork. He worked for the Fish & Wildlife for five years before it transitioned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA. Swain's work was not just limited to the waterfront. He also spent time on Long Island, where he was involved in the composition of the catch. Despite the hard and dangerous nature of the work, Swain enjoyed his job and the camaraderie it offered. He retired as a government worker but remains an active member of his community.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Paul Swain, conducted by Janice Fleuriel on September 22, 2006, provides an in-depth look into the life and career of a government port agent and former fisherman. The interview took place at the 3rd Annual Working Waterfront Festival. Swain shares his experiences working on the waterfront, the evolution of his roles within the government, and the changes he witnessed in the fishing industry. He discusses the shift from live auctions to electronic ones, the loss of personal interaction, and his failed attempt at a fish inspection and grading business. He also provides an explanation of the fish grading system. The interview also touches on the camaraderie and jesting on the waterfront and at auctions, the early fisheries management, the transition from wood to steel boats, and the evolution of electronics. Swain also shares personal anecdotes, such as the story of a cook who baked him an apple pie, and his annual fishing trips. The interview provides a unique perspective on the fishing industry, highlighting the hard work, danger, and the sense of community among the workers. It serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the history of the fishing industry, the evolution of government roles, and the personal experiences of those who worked on the waterfront.