Plum Point: Traces of Fishing History

Plum Point tells the story of fishing history at specific locations. Numerous features have been preserved on Old Ferolle Island; on a boat trip around the island, you can see foundations, bread ovens, and stone paths or enclosures along the shore. At the Old Ferolle Historic Interpretation Site, other remains are likely associated with 18th-century fishing. The different access points are important for planning: Old Ferolle Island is accessible only by boat, while the boardwalk can be reached from the Viking Trail.

Old Ferolle Island: History of a Fishing Station

Old Ferolle Island in Plum Point was used as a fishing station in the late 16th century by seafarers from the Basque regions of Spain and France. Later, the island was also used by seafarers from Normandy in France. Most sites on the island are associated with the Basque and French migratory cod fishery. This distinguishes two aspects: the island’s use by seafarers of various origins and the association of most sites with this fishing tradition.

Coastal Remains Seen from the Water

On a boat trip around Old Ferolle Island, you can see stone foundations of structures, bread ovens, and paths or enclosures built of stone along the shore. These different features connect traces of buildings with paths and boundaries. Those interested in archaeology can relate the visible traces to the history of fishing. Old Ferolle Island is accessible only by boat. If you are planning to land, check in advance what options are currently available.

Traces at the Old Ferolle Historic Interpretation Site

A description from 2021 mentions remains of paths, building foundations, ovens, fish storage areas, wharf foundations, and gardens at the Old Ferolle Historic Interpretation Site in Plum Point. They are likely connected with 18th-century fishing. This dating differs from the use of Old Ferolle Island as a fishing station in the late 16th century: the connection to the 18th century refers to the remains at the Interpretation Site and is a probable attribution.

Boardwalk and Directions

The boardwalk at the Old Ferolle site leads to the Plum Point Motel and can be reached from the Viking Trail (Route 430) via the Plum Point exit next to the motel. As maintenance may be required, check the condition of the boardwalk before using it.

Newfoundland and Labrador: Another Perspective

Newfoundland and Labrador also offers its own landscape highlights. In Gros Morne National Park, the Tablelands are a rare exposure of the Earth’s mantle, pushed up half a billion years ago. In the same park, Gros Morne Mountain can be climbed on a challenging, one-day, 17-kilometre round trip from the lowlands into the alpine landscape. Check for seasonal restrictions before planning. These regional examples differ from Plum Point’s focus: Gros Morne highlights geological history and a challenging mountain hike, while Plum Point focuses on archaeological traces of fishing.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Norris Point, Cow Head, Port Au Choix, Rocky Harbour, Roddickton, Green Island Cove, Black Duck Cove, River Of Ponds

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 9.