Sam Lash
Finding Friendship Oral History Project
The Finding Friendship Oral History Project is a joint effort of the Friendship Museum and the Friendship Village School, directed by Sally Merrick, museum volunteer, and Gaylea Hynd, teacher. In 2003-2004 sixth grade students conducted taped interviews of three generations of lobstermen and women, as well as others associated with the lobstering industry. Printed copies of the interviews and CDs of the printed transcripts are available at the Friendship Museum in Friendship, Maine.
Peggy Simmons
Sam Lash, born on September 4, 1986, is a dedicated lobsterman hailing from Friendship, where his family has deep roots spanning four generations. Growing up surrounded by the ocean, Sam developed a passion for fishing and hunting from an early age. At the age of twelve, he was introduced to the world of lobstering by his cousin Isaac, and since then, he has been hooked on the profession. With five years of experience under his belt, Sam has cultivated a deep love and appreciation for the intricacies of lobstering.
Scope and Content Note
Sam Lash provides insights into his life as a lobsterman. Sam shares his beginnings in lobstering, tracing back to his childhood experiences on boats, which fueled his lifelong affinity for the profession. With a 30-foot Repco boat named Clockwork equipped with essential tools such as a fathometer, plotter, VHF radio, AM/FM radio, and radar, Sam describes the key equipment he carries on board for navigation and communication purposes. Delving into the technical aspects, Sam reveals details about his lobster traps, which measure 4 feet in length, 2 feet in width, and weigh approximately 40 pounds each. He highlights the distinctive fluorescent blue and yellow buoy colors he uses to differentiate his traps from others. Sam also shares insights into his choice of bait, consisting of pogies and herring obtained from O'Hara Bait in Rockland. When discussing his daily routine, Sam explains the frequency of hauling traps, typically three to four times a week. He mentions the variety of fish that end up in his traps, including codfish, sculpins, and flounder, most of which he releases back into the water. At the end of a day's work, Sam sells his lobsters to Lash Lobster Wharf, where the price and value are determined by Stevie. Reflecting on the rewards of his profession, Sam expresses his deep affection for lobstering, emphasizing that there isn't one specific aspect he enjoys the most—it's an overall love he holds for the occupation. While he currently refrains from lobstering in the winter, Sam plans to venture into the colder months as he acquires additional gear. In the meantime, he keeps busy during winter by constructing new traps, painting his buoys, and preparing for the upcoming season.
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