Warren E. Bailey

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Oral History Collection - Fishing and Fisheries

Description

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.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
10-26-1981
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting 
Molly Graham

Principal Investigator
Audio
Biographical Sketch

Warren E. Bailey, born and raised in Woods Hole, has been deeply connected to the fishing industry throughout his life. He grew up on North Street and attended school in the village. At the age of 17, he started working for Sam Cahoon at his fish market. However, his plans to immediately join the service during World War II were delayed, and he continued working for Sam Cahoon throughout the summer. Bailey eventually enlisted in the Navy and served in World War II. After his military service, he returned to the fish market in Falmouth, where he continued his work. He dedicated 20 years to the market and later became the manager of the Harbor View Fish Market on Falmouth Harbor. Bailey still carries on his work with the help of his wife, Elizabeth.

Scope and Content Note
Warren E. Bailey discusses his experiences working at Sam Cahoon's fish market in Woods Hole. He highlights the market's status as one of the largest and most successful businesses in the area, employing many families. Bailey's involvement began with part-time work shoveling coal for the Senator, and later he joined the Harrison family, managing the fish market and participating in sailboat racing. The market primarily operated as a wholesale business but also had a small retail section. It dealt with various fish species and handled significant quantities during peak seasons, with multiple boats bringing in fish daily. Bailey talks about the challenges of the fish business, including fluctuating prices and the perishability of fish. He also mentions how the market remained operational during World War II as an essential industry. Bailey shares anecdotes about working long hours and emphasizes the dedication of the employees. He highlights the camaraderie among the workers and the close-knit nature of the fishing community. Throughout the interview, Bailey reflects fondly on his time at Sam Cahoon's fish market and acknowledges the changes that have occurred in the fishing industry over the years.


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