Settlement Migration in Central Bonavista Bay Newfoundland

Abstract

During the last two decades, the islands of Bonavista Bay --a large bay of Northeastern Newfoundland-- have been swept almost totally clear of settlements. Many of the dwellings were floated to the local mainland to join existing communities, or to found new and separate settlements. To describe and to explain this dramatic movement, this study probes the establishment of a permanent population in Central Bonavista Bay, and its development over more than two centuries to the mid-1950's, paying particular attention to the factors of development which influenced the recent migrations. The traditional way of life of the archipelago settlements is detailed, as are the basic changes which brought about the settlement migrations. Finally, the conditions in 1964 are examined, and an attempt is made to predict the future of the area.