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The sea played a vital role in the history, culture and livelihood of most Newfoundlanders, especially those in out port communities like Fleur De Lys. It not only provided nourishment, and economic livelihood for the people within these communities, but it also completely shaped their way of life and identity. For nearly 500 years the fishery sustained to help employ and define the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. However, on July 2nd, 1992, five centuries of fishing activity and a complete way of life was abruptly halted. The northern cod moratorium altered the fabric of our province — economically, socially and culturally.
The collapse of the ground fish fishery was an event that changed the history of our province and is a moment that most of us will never forget.
This theme and how it pertains particularly to the community of Fleur De Lys, NL, is the centre of our “Community Stories” online display. Sit back and enjoy a brief glimpse into our past and what was once our way of life. As our fellow Newfoundlander, Wayne Bartlett wrote, “She’s Gone By’e, She’s Gone!”
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following people for contributing to the development of this exhibit, without them this project would not have been possible. Hats off to; Jill Dempsey, Neil Lewis, George & Millie Walsh, the residents of Fleur De Lys who gave us permission to use their photos. Also we would like to thank the Canadian Heritage Information Network for their support, the Fleur De Lys Cap and Library Committee as well as the Dorset Eskimo Carving Committee. Thanks again!
