Shawn Sipple
The Working Waterfront Festival Community Documentation Project
The Working Waterfront Festival Community Documentation Project is an ongoing oral history project documenting the history and culture of the commercial fishing industry and other port trades. The project was begun in 2004 in conjunction with the Working Waterfront Festival, an annual, education celebration of commercial fishing culture which takes place in New Bedford, MA. Interviewees have included a wide range of individuals connected to the commercial fishing industry and/or other aspects of the port through work or familial ties. While the majority of interviewees are from the port of New Bedford, the project has also documented numerous individuals from other ports around the country. Folklorist and Festival Director Laura Orleans and Community Scholar/Associate Director Kirsten Bendiksen are Project Leaders. The original recordings reside at the National Council for the Traditional Arts in Maryland with listening copies housed at the Festival's New Bedford office.
Tove E. Bendiksen
Shawn Sipple is a former fisherman and past winner of the scallop-shucking contest. He was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and attended New Bedford High School. Shawn got into fishing because his father, an ex-commercial fisherman, was tragically burned in a boat fire and could no longer fish. Despite the dangers of the profession, Shawn started fishing at the age of 17 after completing high school. He learned the tricks of the trade from Peter Kilshaw, the owner of Northern Edge, who mentored him. Shawn's father also owned the National Social Club in New Bedford. Shawn dedicated himself to the fishing industry and worked as a scalloper for several years. However, due to increasing regulations, he has been out of fishing for approximately 13-14 years.
Scope and Content Note
Shawn Sipple, a former fisherman, shares his insights and experiences in commercial fishing. He discusses the changes in the fishing industry, such as shorter trips and smaller crews due to regulations. Despite the challenges, Shawn emphasizes the importance of consecutive trips to maintain a decent income. He also participated in the Working Waterfront Festival, providing guided tours and sharing stories about life at sea. After retiring from fishing, Shawn transitioned to boat building, utilizing his knowledge and experience. He stresses the dedication and commitment required to be a good fisherman, highlighting the sacrifices made, like missing the birth of his son while at sea. Shawn expresses concerns about the fishing industry's future, cautioning against newcomers due to increasing regulations and the dangers involved. He shares stories about tragic incidents and the dangers of fishing, emphasizing its status as the most dangerous job in the world. The interview covered various topics, including the impact of regulations, challenges faced during storms, and the importance of the Working Waterfront Festival in raising awareness of the fishing industry's struggles. Despite the difficulties, Shawn expresses his love for his job and the sense of community among fishermen.
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