Virgil Richards, born on May 22, 1936, in Waldoboro, is a fourth-generation resident of Friendship, where he has lived since 1940. He comes from a family with a deep lobstering tradition. With five siblings, three children, and three grandchildren, Virgil has spent 42 years as a lobsterman, making it his lifelong occupation. While lobstering is his primary focus, his special interest lies in his grandchildren.

Scope and Content Note
In this interview with Virgil Richards, conducted by Jimmy and Dillon on September 29, 2003, at Virgil's home, a wide range of topics related to his lobstering career were discussed. Virgil shares details about his entry into the lobstering industry in 1962 after his service in the Navy, following the footsteps of his lobsterman brothers. He describes his daily responsibilities on the boat, which involve managing and operating the entire operation, including owning the boat, setting traps, and fishing them. Virgil explains the significance of lobstering as a family tradition that extends back to his grandfather. He provides insights into his lobster boat, the "Still Smokin'," a 35-foot fiberglass vessel equipped with various navigational and safety equipment. The interview covers topics such as trap specifications, trap-setting techniques, bait preferences, and the impact of weather conditions on lobstering. Reflecting on his experiences, Virgil discusses the changes in lobstering since he began his career, such as the transition from wood to plastic equipment and the introduction of electronic devices. He expresses his deep connection to lobstering, describing it as something he was born into, and shared his bittersweet feelings about reaching the end of his career. Virgil also recounted some memorable moments from his lobstering expeditions, including catching unique and rare lobsters, such as a blue lobster that was sent to the aquarium in Boston. He discusses the challenges and occasional mishaps at sea but emphasizes that he had never encountered any significant incidents.