Research
The following information has been collected from a variety of sources over a number of years.
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| 09/02/1610 | Trinity House of Deptford Transactions, 1609-35 | Proposals made by London and Bristol merchants to the privy council, referred to Trinity House The petitioners, having used the fishing trade of Newfoundland, are confident that the country is habitable in winter because it is in latitude 47°, which is further south than any part of England and is the same as Bordeaux. It is full of woodland and fair rivers stocked with fish, and there are fowls and edible animals such as stags. The voyage from England and Ireland takes only 3 weeks, with reasonable winds, and the island is as near to England as it is to Spain. They seek to establish a plantation with a few men to make trial thereof, especially since they would not be molested because savages have not been seen there. The following reasons may be considered: (a) 200 ships with about 6,000 mariners go there each year 'whereby great benefit accrueth not only to many private persons, but also to the whole commonwealth by the increase of navigation and trade in merchandise which ships going thither to fish and in manner empty are fit to carry all matters for plantation'. (b) If a foreign prince or state took possession of the land and erected fortifications, thereby debarring the use of harbours and fishing, the consequences would be very serious. Indeed, the French tried to winter there in about 1580, (fn. 1) but by lack of foresight they all perished 'for want of necessaries for plantation'. (c) If the plantation succeed, fishing would be secure forever, and the commodity greater because of the probable increase in the number of ships engaged in the trade, since planters could fish in boats in places otherwise unusable for lack of harbours. (d) The settlers could provide supplies to the fishermen, care for the sick, and look after the boats. (e) The ground may be fit for tillage and pasturing cattle, and the woodland put to use. (f) The settlers will learn whaling for great profit, as the Biscayans already do on nearby coasts. [f.lv] (g) It is hoped that the country will afford furs, 'heath', pitch, turpentine, boards made from pine trees, masts and yards for small ships, soap-ashes [wood ash used in making soap], stags, skins, hawks of all kinds, seal skins, train oil and either copper or iron mines which in view of the woods and rivers might easily be very profitable. (h) The land lies on the direct route to Virginia and a plantation or fortification there would make it a serviceable rendezvous. Letters patent are sought for a small settlement in an area not previously occupied by christians, together with rights in respect of fishing and the use of the land. |
| 02/05/1610 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 and Addenda 1574-1674 | Letters Patent to Henry Earl of Northampton, Keeper of the Privy Seal; Sir Laurence Cranfield, Chief Baron of the Exchequer; Sir John Doddridge; Sir Francis Bacon, Solicitor General; Sir Daniel Dunn, Sir Walter Cope, Sir Percival Willoughby, and Sir John Constable, John Weld, Esq., Wm. Freeman, Raphe Freeman, John Slany, Humphrey Slany, Wm. Turner, Robt. Kirkham, John Weld, gent., Rich. Fishborne, John Browne, Humphrey Spencer, Thos. Juxon, John Stukeley, Ellis Crispe, Thos. Alport. Fras. Needham, Wm. Jones, Thos. Langton, Phillip Gifford, John Whittington, Edward Allen, Richard Bowdley, Thos. Jones, Simon Stone, John Short, John Vigars, John Juxon, Rich. Hobby, Robt. Alder, Mathew Haviland, Thos. Aldworth, Wm. Lewes, John Guy, Richard Hallworthie, John Langton, Humfrey Hooke, Philip Guy, Wm. Merridith, Adrian Jenninges, and John Dowghtye, their heirs and assigns, to be one body or "commynalty,"known and incorporated by the name of the Treasurer and Company of Adventurers and Planters of the City of London and Bristol for the Colony or Plantation in Newfoundland. Being desirous to establish a colony or colonies in the southern and eastern parts of Newfoundland, unto the coast and harbour whereof our subjects for fifty years and upwards yearly used to resort in no small numbers to fish, intending to secure said trade of fishing for ever, We, being well assured that the lands and countries adjoining said coasts where our subjects used to fish remain so desolate of inhabitants that scaree any one savage person hath in many years been seen in the most parts thereof, and well knowing the same is very commodious for us and our dominions, and that by the law of nature and nations we may possess ourselves and make grant thereof without doing wrong to any other Prince or State, considering they cannot justly pretend any sovereignty or right thereunto, in respect the same is not possessed or inhabited by any Christian or any other whomsoever; and therefore thinking it an action well beseeming a Christian King to make true use of that which God created for mankind, but principally to increase the knowledge of the Omnipotent God and the propagation of our Christian faith, We have accepted their suit, and by these presents grant to those above named all that portion of Newfoundland, with the reservations and limitations hereafter expressed, to the southward of the parallel line to pass by the Cape Bonwiste (Bonavista ?) inclusive, which cape is to the northward of Trinity Bay, and to the eastward of the meridian line to pass by Cape Saint Maries inclusive, which cape is to the eastward of Placentia Bay, together with the seas and islands within ten leagues of the sea coast, and all lands and islands between 46 and 52 degrees of N. latitude, with all mines, minerals, and precious stones, fishings, huntings, and commodities, &c., and all prerogatives, royalties, franchises, &c., whatsoever. Nevertheless that there be unto all persons of what nation soever, and to our subjects who do at present or hereafter shall trade to the parts aforesaid for fishing, all liberties, powers, and easements, and all other benefits whatsoever, as well concerning their said fishing as all other circumstances, in as large and ample manner as they have heretofore enjoyed the same, without disturbance or exaction, anything in these presents to the contrary notwithstanding. To have and to hold said lands and territories to the sole and proper use of said Treasurer and Company, their successors and assigns, as of our manor of East Greenwich, paying the fifth part of gold and silver ore. A Council of twelve persons resident in London to be established, to order and govern all matters arising in said plantation. |
| 06/09/1640 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 1: 1574-1660 | Order of the Privy Council. Upon petition of the merchants, master, and owners of the Honor, representing that their vessel came from Virginia in May last, laden with tobacco and other commodities, and paid large sums of money for custom, and requesting permission to take over passengers and provisions thither; directing the necessary orders to be given, as desired. Sept. 9. 76. Order of the Privy Council. Upon Petition of the merchants, owners, and masters of ships, mariners and fishermen of Devon, complaining against Sir David Kirke and other planters residing in Newfoundland; directing a commission to be issued for the western parts, to examine into the truth of the matters in controversy. [Draft, with corrections.] Sept. 12. Ferryland. 77. Sir David Kirke to the Privy Council. Their letters of the 11th March last have been received, with many complaints of the west country owners and fishermen against him. Protests that all the allegations are false. Stages and cook-rooms have been pulled down by the fishermen themselves, insomuch that the masters complained to him of those outrages. Has sent warrants to all planters and fishermen to see the clauses in the 9th of His Majesty's reign duly kept. Hopes by good proofs, to clear himself from causeless clamours against him. Whoever would interrupt the fishing of Newfoundland is worthy the name of a traitor. 1640? 78. Names of ports and places in the West of England and elsewhere that use the fishing trade of Newfoundland. 1640? 79. Rich. Breton to [Sec. Windebank]. The share of each adventure to Newfoundland being divided equally between the owners of the ship, the victuallers, and the ship's company, the quantity of fish taken on each voyage may easily be ascertained. Proposals for collecting what impost it may be thought good to lay upon that commodity. Endorsed by Sec. Windebank, "Britton: fishing Newfoundland." 1640? 80. Mem. concerning "the bill" to be preferred by the west country men about the Newfoundland fishery. Advantage to British navigation, if the Dutch were prohibited from buying fish there. Aliens should pay the same duties that are paid in England; a course for levying them may easily be directed. Endorsed by Sec. Windebank, "Newfoundland fishing." |
| 01/01/1670 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 7: 1669-1674 | Certain arguments for a settled Government in Newfoundland, tendered by Capt. Robinson to the Duke of York, with a description of that part of the country inhabited by the English and French. That there hath been these 100 years a very profitable fishing in that country, with the yearly employ of several hundred ships and about 15,000 seamen and others. For many years Sir David Kirke was settled there as Governor by Charles the First, with several forts for security, and, caused the French that fished there to pay toll; since which they have seated themselves at Placentia Bay, the best place of fishing, where they have a Governor and forts. The glory of God and honour of his Majesty exceedingly suffer in having so many thousands of his subjects without any public prayers, preaching, baptizing, marrying, burying, or religious observation of the Lord's Day, which is altogether spent in drinking, every house being as it were a tavern, so that many fishermen and planters have complained to Capt. Robinson, and several have become wholly atheistical. His Majesty's laws for the preservation of the plantation are generally violated. (1.) There is a yearly destruction of 260,000 young trees, by reason of the seamen's breaking down all their stages and other rooms at the end of the year; (2) and of 50,000 bigger trees by pulling off the rinds to cover their stages, to the great hindrance of the fishing, the seamen being constrained to travel much further in snow and ice up the country for others, and also to come sooner, to the hazard of all from ice and fog, so that many have lost both their ships and lives; (3) many looser persons out of carelessness or wilfulness set fire to the woods to the exceeding prejudice of the country; (4) but the most pernicious custom is the throwing overboard at the end of the year their press stones of very great bigness into all harbours, to the endangering of vessels that follow, and the spoiling of as brave and safe harbours as any in the world; (5) there is no plantation of equal account but has laws for Church and State discipline, and a person to administer them, and keep the place from foreign powers; only this place is liable to be a prey to any Christian or Turk that comes to surprise it, as was seen lately in the example of De Ruyter, for had St. John's harbour 10 or 12 guns and a Governor a greater force could no more have hurt them than Barbadoes; (6) what is alleged against a settled Government is for private ends, and tends to anarchy, and is easily answered, viz., that it would occasion the forestalling of fish, raising the price of commodities, settling more planters than are fitting, and pulling down stages; all which his Majesty may take care by commands to his Governor to prevent; as to the last particular he knows that the fishers themselves do it, and not the planters, through want of a Governor to restrain them; and reason and experience teach us in peace to provide for war; (7) lastly, the charge will be inconsiderable, for one penny the "kentall" of merchantable fish, one halfpenny for refuse, and one shilling per hogshead of oil, and the benefit of the furs which the planters little use, and to have the benefit of the furs of the country would make the Governor a competent salary, which they need not grudge, who for all their fish and oil exported amounting to several 100,000l. pay no duty to his Majesty at all. Endorsed,"A paper given in by Capt. Robinson in 1670, touching Newfoundland. |
| 13/03/1675 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 and Addenda 1574-1674 | Wm. Arundel, Mayor of Falmouth, to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson. Has, in order to the commands of the Privy Council, consulted with the inhabitants of this Corporation, concerning the state of Newfoundland, the number and force of the planters, and the situation of the ports and harbours, a short narrative whereof is enclosed. Endorsed, "R. 19, 1674/5." Enclosed, 466. i. A description of the harbours of Newfoundland, with their inhabitants from Cape Bonavista to Cape de Race, being as much as is at present inhabited by the English. Bonavista, with 15 or 16 inhabitants, road very foul; Trinity, with 10 or 12 inhabitants, a very safe harbour; Bay of Veares, with 3 or 4 families, a small dangerous cone; Carboneare, with 5 or 6 families, an indifferent good harbour; Harbour Grace, with 14 or 15 families, a harbour of great safety, but dangerous without a pilot; Port Grave, a small harbour with 3 or 4 families; Harbour Maine, in Conception Bay, with 2 or 3 families; Belle Isle, an island without inhabitants; Tor Bay, a small fishing cove with 5 or 6 families; St. John's, with 50 or 60 families, the best port in the whole land, and of very great security if fortified with a castle; many ships load there, and more would if it were fortified, for then merchants would have encouragement to leave their estates there, who now adventure no more than needs must; Pettye Harbour, a small port with 3 families; Bay of Bulls, with 10 families, a large bay where the convoys make up their fleets in time of war; Capelyn Bay, with about 6 families; Cape Broyle, a good harbour with no inhabitants; Trepastye, 10 leagues west of Cape de Race, with 5 families, a bold harbour and farthest to the west in possession of the English. |
| 17/03/1675 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 and Addenda 1574-1674 | Reasons tendered by Geo. Pley for a settled government in Newfoundland, for the prevention of several abuses and for security and encouragement of trade. The yearly destruction of 250,000 young trees and 50,000 bigger trees, the burning of the woods and throwing overboard press-stones into the harbours (see "Capt. Robinson's Paper" in preceding volume, No. 369). After the "caplew-scull" used for bait is gone, the fishermen shoot their lance seines for bait, and take an infinite number of young cod, which are of no use, enough to load all the ships in the land. The French have harbours in the north at the Bays of Foggs and St. John's, and round all the land to the south as far as Trepasse, with a strong fort at the Harbour of Plaisance, but 12 miles from the English at the bottom of the Bay of Trinity. It is therefore offered that Trinity, Harbor de Grace, St. John's, and Ferryland are the most fit harbours to fortify; that no fires be made in the woods in summer time when they go to fetch "dinnidge" for their ships, in regard the grass and moss is then so dry that many miles of woods have been burnt, so that in some harbours they are forced to go many miles for timber; and that the articles made for regulation of the country may be sent to the mayors of the port towns to deliver each master a copy, and that in the articles a strict order be made to the Admiral of every harbour to charge each master to observe them, the harbours being so distant that a governor cannot inspect all. |
| 21/03/1675 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 and Addenda 1574-1674 | Th. Farr, Mayor of Southampton, to the Committee of Council for Trade and Plantations. In obedience to their order of 25th Feb., has convened the Corporation and others concerned in the Newfoundland trade, and some Masters that have used that employ above 20 years, who say that the English Plantation from Trapazi to Bonavista is about 80 leagues, within which are many convenient harbours which are named, wherein about 1,000 English Planters are commonly resident all the winter, and in summer 4,000. The French Plantation is in the Bay of Placentia, with a fort with 14 guns and 40 or 50 soldiers; and being not above six miles by land from the English at the bottom of the Bay of Trinity, the French draw away many English, intermarry with them, and bring up much of their fish against the coming of their ships. They also say that the stages they build to cure their fish are broken down by the planters in the winter, causing the merchants to send their ships a month sooner than otherwise they need to make new ones. The masters last year at Newfoundland positively affirm that five ships of St. Malo were laden at Bonavist and Trinity Bay, and that as many more are this year designed under the disguise of Jerseymen, to the great prejudice of English navigation. Assures them this formerly flourishing but now decayed town in trade will always be ready to their utmost to advance his Majesty's interest, and would think themselves happy to receive encouragement. |
| 12/09/1675 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 | Sir John Berry to Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson. Refers to his former letter of 24th July (see ante, No. 628). Encloses a perfect account of all the fishing ships employed by the merchant adventurers from Cape de Race to Cape Bonavista, with their boats, men, and where bound. This year there are 175 ships, with 4,309 men, and 688 boats, which at 250 kentalls per boat at 12s. per kentall amounts to 103,200l.; 7 hhds. of train oil per boat at 40s. per hhd. is 9,816l.; and 20 kentalls of core fish per boat as 5s. per kentall is 3,440l.; which in all comes to 116,272l. Has likewise sent an exact account of the planters, who are 1,655 men, women, and children, they employ 277 boats, and cured upwards of 69,250 kentalls of merchantile fish, most of it shipped in English vessels, which, with their core fish and oil, will amount to 46,813l., upwards of one-third of the fish taken by the merchant adventurers. By this his Honour may see what a loss his Majesty will have if those poor people should remove, for they design to settle amongst the French on the other side of Cape de Race, unless his Majesty will let them continue. Stands in admiration how people could appear before his Majesty with so many untruths against the inhabitants. It was never known since the memory of the oldest man using the trade that any New England ship brought wine or brandy in exchange for fish, only some provisions, taking those goods for payment. For better satisfaction, encloses a list of all ships that have furnished them this year, with master's names, and where they belong. The masters are the beginners in destroying the stages, and to save 30s. for a seaman's passage care not how many are left behind. Believes his Majesty will never have a regulation of this fishery unless a governor be settled, for the strongest treads down the weakest. Most of the ships bound to a market are gone away two or three in company, scorning convoy. Shall not be above 30 sail, and the weather proving ill for curing will keep them till the 20th or 25th instant. Has sent home one Jno. Bastard, who was apprehended for the supposed murder of John Tozer, his fellow boatman, in May before his arrival, and having examined the matter, has bound over four witnesses to prosecute. Cannot get any certain account of the French and their ships; they have two men-of-war of 40 and 30 guns for convoy, and rendezvous at Trepassey, near Cape de Race; the St. Malo fleet of 20 sail go without convoy, being all considerable ships, and about 40 or 50 with convoy. |
| 12/09/1675 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 9: 1675-1676 | Sir John Berry to Sir Robt. Southwell. To the same effect as his preceding letter. Incloses accounts of the fishing ships and inhabitants, and list of the ships bringing wine and brandy, above half of which is sold to the fishing ships' crews, who come unprovided, trusting to those ships that yearly bring great quantities, and sell cheap, there being no duty. It will be easy to prevent all this clamour about pulling down stages and seducing men to stay in the country if every commander be bound in 500l. to return all his crew (mortality excepted), and to take down all stages and preserve them in some convenient place to serve next season; for if there be not some course taken, in a few years wood will be very hard to bring out, and the sea and ice destroy many stages. Endorsed, "Read at the Committee, 4 Dec. 1675. Read again at the Committee, 13 April 1676. Read again the 8th Augt. 1676 in presence of Sir J. Berry." Encloses, 666. i. "A list of ships making fishing voyages with boatkeepers who come passengers on their own account; and what ships bound to foreign markets; from Cape de Race to Cape Bonavista;" with the harbours' names, and distance apart; latitude; masters' names; ships' names of whence; burden; guns; men; boats; stages; trainfats; and whither bound; amounting in all to 28 boatkeepers, 172 ships, 13,106 tons burden, 675 guns, 4,309 men, 688 boats, 160 stages and 139 trainfats. 666. ii, "A list of the planters' names with an account of their concerns from Cape de Race to Cape Bonavista;" with the harbours' names; planters' names; children, male and female; men; boats; stages; trainfats; and head of cattle; amounting in all to 146 planters, 187 children 1,253 men, 277 boats, 127 stages, 51 trainfats, and 548 cattle. 666. iii. "A list of those that have furnished the inhabitants and ships' crews with brandy, wines, &c., in the year 1675," with the names of the masters, ships, and ports whence they came, all English. |
| 27/01/1676 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 and Addenda 1621-1698 | Copy of a Charter to the West Country Adventurers for the fishery of Newfoundland. Confirming the previous charters of 10 Feb., 1634 and 26 June, 1661, under certain restrictions of non-residence, and adding other laws for its better government, viz.: That no planter be permitted to build or to cut down wood within six miles of the shore, nor take up the stages and places of the fishermen. No more seamen are to be taken out than required, and every fifth man is not to be a seaman. No vessels are to leave England before March. The Mayors of the Western Ports are to take bond of the ships' masters for fulfilment of these conditions; and, as there is now no Court Martial in England, offenders in Newfoundland are to be reported to one of the Secretaries of State. |
| 10/09/1677 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 10: 1677-1680 | Sir William Poole to Lords of Trade and Plantations Has made the best inspection he can relating to the affairs of this country, and has conversed with the fishers, the "sackes," and the planters, and inquired into all their grievances, which he fears will scarce be composed while left to their own "managery," in that they are so envious one towards another, and this particular harbour of St. John's makes more trouble than all the country beside. Has sent answers at large to every head of inquiry both from inhabitants and fishers, where their Lordships will discover how they differ, and wherein they transgress the patent which they say cannot be performed at all points. Sends also account of the number of men, women, children, and servants inhabiting from Trepasse to the westward of Cape Race to Cape Bonavista; also the number of their houses, gardens, cattle, boats, stages, trainfats, &c, account of the fish ships and by boats, number of men, boats, stages, and fishing in every particular port or harbour this year; also of all the sacks, their number of men, tons, and guns in every port or harbour where they laded their fish, and to what ports transported, and as near as he could the provisions of all sorts imported this year, and from whence, as France, Portugal, Western Islands, New England, New York, and Barbadoes. How the planters pass away the winter, the quantity of fish they make, and whether cheaper or dearer than the fishermen, and the quantity they have also made. Transmits the best account he can of the French in this country, and how they manage their fishery, and much outdo our people by taking more and better fish and running to market before us; their forts, ships with their burthen, and guns. There is still an ancient animosity between the fishers and planters. Some fishers grumble the inhabitants live near the seaside, and some that they are permitted to stay in the country, notwithstanding they confess and it is very apparent that the planters are of very great use to them, because they have not all the flakes next the seaside to dry their fish, and cannot dispossess them of their storehouses and stages when they please. The next, which has some reason, is that the planters' houses and stages are scattered too much about the harbour, that they cannot avoid mixing one with another, which may admit of many inconveniences, but there is now no separating them without pulling down the planters' houses and rooms, which will cost them dear to rebuild, having no wood nearer than three miles. The next cavil is against the planters' hogs and cattle, which sometimes break out to their stages and spoil some of their fish, but this is no great prejudice, the custom of the country obliging a return of the fish spoilt. Another is the planters' increase, especially in St. John's, and will do faster when their children marry, and then this place cannot afford accommodation for all to fish. This must be granted if they conclude the planters to be immortal, but if succeeding years produce not more fish than this year, in six years there will not be ten planters left, for they have not this year caught fish enough either to pay their servants or the provisions bought. These are the chiefest grievances, and not very difficult to be relieved. Describes how the planters are useful to the fishers by employing their people in the woods to fell trees in the winter to saw into boards to build boats and make oars against next season, and to secure in their houses the unused salt till next year. In cases of sickness there are no other nurseries but the planters' houses, which are always at their service and their wives to attend them. But the chiefest use of the planters, as the fishers say, is at their first coming upon the coast, if by contrary winds they do not fall in with the harbour they despatch away their boats to take possession of the harbour, for first come first served, and sometimes their ships don't atrive for ten or twelve days, in such case what would become of the poor men at such a cold season if they were not relieved by the planters. At going the planters will give the fishers, or take from them, provisions for fish. To remove the planters six miles into the country is worse than to turn them off, and to turn them quite off the masters of the fishery cry God forbid. Assures their Lordships there is room enough and conveniences for all the fishers and planters that are here for this season; some of both have had more room and more stages than they have employed, "yet they would fain be injuring one another." |
| 10/09/1677 | calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 10: 1677-1680 | Account of fishing and sack ships from St. John's to Bonavista. The whole account of all the inhabitants in Newfoundland, with all the fish ships, boats, and sack ships for the year 1677; also the several sorts of wines and provisions imported this year only in St. John's Harbour. Number of men, including housekeepers, their sons and servants, 1,631; of wives, widows, daughters and maid servants, 253; total inhabitants, 1,884. The nearest estimate of fish taken, 180 kintals per boat, which makes [for 1,229 boats] 221,220 kintals. Usual estimate of salt, 30 hogsheads of salt per boat, sometimes much more, which makes 9,217 tons of salt. For every 40 kintals of fish they account one hogshead of train oil, which makes 5,530 hogsheads of train oil. There is room enough in this harbour for more boats than fished this summer without injuring one another. Signed by Sir William Poole, and received from him 16 Oct. 1677. |
| 01/01/1680 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 10: 1677-1680 | "Several reasons offered for not removing the Planters from the Newfoundland by several merchants and masters of ships which many years have used the trade of fishing there." Nine reasons in all, setting forth the ruin that would accrue alike to English traders and Newfoundlanders. Signed by the Mayor of Poole and twenty-four others of the town. Endorsed, Not allowed at the Committee. [Col. Papers. Vol. XLVI., No. 77.] 1634. A list of all the Planters and Inhabitants in the English ports in Newfoundland, anno 1680. 212 planters, of whom 99 married, 139 sons, 112 daughters, 23 women servants, 1,695 men servants in summer, 1,107 in winter, 2,181 inhabitants in summer, 1,593 in winter. 454 kine, 25 horses, 361 boats. An account of the ships which fished in the English ports in Newfoundland 1680. 97 ships of 9,305 tons and 3,922 men. A list of ships which goes for sack out of the English ports in Newfoundland, 1680, 99 ships of 8,123 tons, 1,157 men, 415 guns. |
| 14/02/1683 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 11: 1681-1685 | Captain Talbot to the King. In my last report concerning Newfoundland I represented that it produced greater customs than any Colony except Virginia, and that there was danger of French encroachment on our trade, and I proposed that St. John's or some other port, should be fortified. On my return home I was informed that Lord Shaftesbury had opposed the suggestion as to fortifications, and said that if the island were taken by the French we could retake it. But I think that the trade should not be exposed to such risk. France has long endeavoured to monopolise the supply of fish to Portugal, Spain, and Italy, and will take advantage of any differences between the two Crowns. The trade is in danger also from other causes. The Adventurers are so discouraged by their late poor success that some have laid up their ships, and more threaten to do so. The cause of their failure is the limitation to fish between Capes de Ray and Bonavista. This ground is overfished, and half the fleet might do better by fishing among the French on the south-west, starting earlier and so getting the first market, which the French have had since we have had war with Algiers and Sallee. If some of the Adventurers fished to the south-west, and fortifications were built for their security, the French would in time be forced to pay the five per cent., which they certainly ought. For they allow us no liberty on their coast of Nova Scotia. Nor should the French be allowed to fortify themselves at Placentia. So far no great harm is done, but if they have time to establish themselves it may be as difficult to reduce them as the cowkillers from Hispaniola. The want of a Governor is much felt. The woods are burned and the harbours spoiled by throwing press-stones into them, so much so that many of our men prefer to fish among the French. France, Spain, and Portugal will not take so much of our staple as will pay for our imports from thence, so we must send fish unless we would send money. |
| 15/12/1690 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 and Addenda 1621-1698 | Answers to articles of enquiry from the Lords of Trade and Plantations. (1) The number of English planters, all included, is 1,560. They depend wholly on fishing in summer and getting firewood and building their houses in winter. (2) The Colony depends on provisions imported from the British Isles and New England. (3) There is wood enough to supply the fishing-trade in all the convenient harbours for time to come out of mind. The inhabitants do not damage the materials left behind by the Adventurers. (4) The inhabitants use only their own stages, and only occupy the places of the Adventurers if the Adventurers come not. (5) The boat-keepers do not destroy the Adventurers' stages, but the masters of the ships take them down and store them. (6) The boat-keepers have all their fishing craft from old England, and nowhere else, but their provisions from England, Ireland, and New England. (7) There is no possibility of living six miles from the coast, by reason of the timber and rocks and want of arable land. The Southern part of the country takes no beaver nor furs. A small unknown quantity is taken at Trinity and Bonavista. (8) The trade from New England is provisions, sugar and molasses, with which they purchase refuse-fish for the Caribbees. No wine or brandy is imported; they are not debauched with rum; but fishing night and day they want liquor to enliven them against the cold. (9) The inhabitants have caught 95,900 quintals of fish. They employ 74 boats and 1,012 servants. They cannot afford fish so cheap as the Adventurers, the latter having an advantage of 30 or 40 per cent.; yet the inhabitants sell at the same rate as the Adventurers. (10) There is no fishing trade from New England on this coast. It is said that the fishing trade in New England decays owing to French privateers. (11) There have been no fishing ships from England since the war, and all fish taken has been taken (with few exceptions) by the planters. (12) About fifty-three sack ships have sailed for Spanish and Portuguese ports with fish, and eight for British ports with train. There are 218 stages, which are yearly repaired by the inhabitants. (13) No men have been left behind in the country since the war, for there have been no ships. (14) No known part of the Western Charter is violated except the rinding of trees, which is done by all alike including the Adventurers. (15) The French trade for furs, catch fish by Adventurers and inhabitants, and in all things do as we do. (16) There is said to be a fort and families in Placentia, but I cannot say what encouragement is given to planting. (17) The French planters lade ships with fish, and in the winter cut firing and repair their houses; they have a governor and about 150 soldiers. (18) We cannot ascertain what quantity of fish they catch, nor their rates and prices. (19) They come to the Coast five weeks sooner than we, and leave it a month earlier for Marseilles, Genoa and Leghorn. (20) The French trade has decreased since the war. (21) I cannot ascertain what forts the French have. (22) There is no commerce of the English with the French, nor do any English live among the French. (23) No foreigners fish on the Eastern coast. (24) I met no ships on the Bank nor on the coast adjoining, nor can hear any account of any. (25) The French can be disturbed only by force of arms. (26) No nations but the English and French have commerce with Newfoundland. (27) I can obtain no further particulars at present. |
| 04/12/1691 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 and Addenda 1621-1698 | Answers to several heads of enquiry concerning Newfoundland. (1) From Renouse to Bonavista there are 261 planters, 149 women, 309 children, 1,331 servants. Winter-fishing lasts from the middle of September to the end of October, from which time till the end of March they wood, fell stocks, saw wood, and make oars, from Renouse to Bay Verd, and prepare for the summer voyage, which lasts from the first week in May to the third week in August. In Trinity Bay and Bonavista they make no winter voyage, but from September till May they wood and fur, and then fit out for their summer's fishing, which lasts from the middle of June to the 10th of August, the fish not coming sooner on that coast, though in greater abundance than to the southward. The charge for the outset of a boat with five men for the season is £100, so that 200 quintals of fish (which often they do not exceed) does but bring in their first expense. This year some have made 500, some 400, but most 300 quintals, and six hogsheads of train per boat. The difference may be imputed to the carefulness of the men. They fish a small distance from the shore in boats, built in the country, which, fully laden, will make out 9 quintals of cured fish, which may wait at least six weeks from the first taking before it is fit to be shipped. This year's fish has been generally sold for 12s. per quintal, but for some years past from 8s. to 10s. Train this year is £10 to £14 a ton. I do not find that the Western Charter was violated in any material way. |
| 04/12/1691 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 and Addenda 1621-1698 | The Colony is unable to support itself. It has all its fishing craft and most of its provisions from England. New England sends provisions to about 300 tons yearly, which is brought in small vessels, which load refuse-fish for Barbados. (3) The planters do not destroy the woods, but have destroyed some of the Adventurers' boats, though so secretly as not to be discovered. All places, except St. Johns and Ferryland, are well furnished with wood to build landing-stages. (4) The planters do use the ships' room, but resign their place to the fishing ships when they come. (5) No damage is now done to stages by the by-boat-keepers, for the Adventurers lodge their stages, except the beds, which they break up and carry home for fuel. (6) The by-boat-keepers have no fishing craft from New England. (7) They have little sustenance from the land. In Trinity Bay and Bonavista they take £2000 value in furs, but little to the southward. (8) New England men import provisions from their own country and from the West Indies, which some invest in refuse-fish for Barbados, others in merchantable fish for Spain and Portugal, others for drapery and cordage, which are brought from England, others for wine, brandy, and oil, which they carry home. Servants have often stayed behind by reason of debt. (9) This year the planters employed 275 boats, 1,331 men, took 81,550 quintals of fish and made 325 tons of train. The planters sell their fish at the same price as the Adventurers, though at a greater charge by 30 per cent. (10) The New England men fish between their own coast and Nova Scotia, in small vessels of fifteen or twenty tons, carry it home to cure, and thence transport it to Bilbao where it is sold a dollar a quintal higher than Newfoundland fish, owing to its size. (11) This year there are no fishing ships; but their custom is for the master and company to have one third of the fish and train for their wages, paying no other charges than for boards and oars bought in the country. The allowance of provision is the same as in other voyages. (12) This year 88 sail of ships loaded 100,450 quintals of fish, of which 18 ships were for Cadiz, 6 for Alicant, 5 for Lisbon, 7 for Oporto, 23 for Bilbao, 14 for Barbados, 4 for the Western Islands, 3 for New England, and 8 for England. (13) No encouragement is given by masters for men to stay behind, nor did any stay last year. (14) The Western Charter is observed by all, so far as I could learn. (15) The French are best seated for fish and fur. They fish as we do, only they cure upon a beach and we upon flakes, which makes their fish more valuable by 3s. a quintal. They make generally 400 quintals of fish per boat. This year 14 sail were reported at Placentia, and 6 at St. Peters. They usually leave the country by the 20th of August. (16) There were in Placentia 250 inhabitants, and in St. Peters 220. The French merchants sell provisions to the planters at first cost besides the freight, and the planters sell their fish to them at 20 rialls per quintal, for which they take payment in goods and money. (17) The French inhabitants employ themselves in wooding and furring in the winter. (18) I could not ascertain what quantity of fish the French take or at what charge. (19) The French begin their fishing voyage at the end of March and end the 20th of July, leaving at the end of August for their markets in Spain and Italy. (20) Since the war the French trade has decreased in the land, in what proportion is unknown. (21) The French have only Placentia fortified. It was taken in 1689 by a privateer Captain, Herman Williamson, with thirty-five men, which he landed eight miles from the place. He surprised and took the place by night, imprisoned the Governor and all the inhabitants for six weeks and then left it, lading his ship with plunder. He threw all his guns but five into the sea, and left those five at St. John's, for their Majesties' service, where they now are. In May following a privateer of 24 guns and 140 men came to Ferryland to take vengeance, but Williamson, who was there, so briskly engaged him that he left the place and went to Bay-bulls. There he plundered the inhabitants and took a New England ship and a Dartmouth Ketch. In August following another privateer of 30 guns and 200 men arrived at Ferryland, and took a London ship and two more vessels. This last May, it is reported, a Governor and two hundred men arrived at Placentia from France to fortify the place. Last year sixteen English sail were taken by the French on the coasts of Newfoundland and New England, this year two. (22) There were in Placentia seven Englishmen married to French women, who in peace held a friendly correspondency, but now none. (23) No foreigners fish upon the Eastern coast except the French. |
| 04/12/1691 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 and Addenda 1621-1698 | There is no certain account of French trade upon the Bank. From Canada ten sail have yearly laden thence with furs. The French in time of peace never suffered us to trade with Indians. What commerce we had was directly with them. (25) No other nation trades here, so far as is known. (26) No further account can be given of the French trade, as there is no correspondency between them and us. The places inhabited by us have this year been supplied by our English merchants residing at Cadiz, Lisbon and Bilbao, with fifteen foreign bottoms, laden with provisions and linen cloth. The New England men have yearly carried hence to their own country from 100 to 150 seamen and fishermen, which have remained there to the damage of the adventurers and planters. Signed, Charles Hawkins. 7¼ pp. Endorsed, Recd. at the Committee, 11 Jan. and 27 June, 1692. |
| 09/12/1696 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 15: 1696-1697 | The Mayor of Poole to Council of Trade and Plantations. In reply to Mr. Popple's letter of 28 November I have enclosed the proposals of the merchants of the town interested in Newfoundland to Mr. Solomon Merrit, to whom they have given orders to attend you. Signed, Tho. Hyde. 1/2 p. Endorsed, Rec. and read 14 Dec., 1696. Annexed, 479. I. Proposals of the merchants and others of Poole, interested in Newfoundland. (1) We think it absolutely necessary that eight men-of-war sail from England direct to Newfoundland by the middle of February at latest, with a competent number of land forces, for the recapture of the harbours lately taken by the French, for their better preservation in future, and also for attack on the French plantations before they are reinforced. (2) We propose a Governor as very necessary to be constantly at Newfoundland during the war for the better security of the country and inhabitants, having sufficient experience that discipline under a Government has been a great advantage to the French, and the want of it a great loss to us. (3) We propose that St. John's and Ferryland (when reduced) be fortified, being the principal places of fishing and security of ships. (4) A convoy should be ready in January next to sail with the ships bound for Ireland to take in provisions for the inhabitants of Newfoundland, and another convoy for the ships that sail to Spain and Portugal for salt, the want of which would overthrow the fishing-ships and planters' voyages. (5) For the security of the fishing, harbours and inhabitants to northward of St. John's, viz., from St. John's to Cape Bonavista, a competent number of men-of-war (four at least would be necessary) should be appointed to cruise between these places throughout the fishing-season and until the ships are ready to sail. (6) Sufficient convoys should be appointed for the ships homeward bound with train-oil, wet fish, and passengers. During the absence of the shipping the Governor, for the better preservation of the settlements, should depute one of the chief inhabitants in every harbour to govern that harbour, according to instructions which shall be issued by that Governor. It is also necessary that this Governor should have been acquainted with the constitutions of the Colony. For the security of the north part as well as the south during the winter Carbonere and Bonavista should be fortified, the number of inhabitants and the trade being as great there as in other parts of the Island. |
| 14/01/1697 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 15: 1696-1697 | Copy of a letter from John Sikes to Simon Cole. Dartmouth, 10 Jan., 1696–7. A ship came in at noon twenty-six days out from Newfoundland with 230 inhabitants of St. Johns, which, with all the other harbours there, have been taken by the French. All our debts and goods there are therefore lost. The enclosed affidavit tells the story. I am sending it to the Council of Trade to stir them to regain the Colony. The passengers tell us further that they had been informed by the French that Bonavista, Carbonere and Harbour Grace were destroyed by 400 Indians and 100 French, who came overland. All in Bonavista were put to the sword, and those in St. Johns would have had the same fate could they have been caught before they had taken measures of defence. We intend to petition the King to regain the Colony, hoping it will be backed by petitions from your city and the western ports. |
| 01/01/1698 | Statutes of the Realm: Volume 7: 1695-1701 | The British Government passed an Act to encourage English trade with Newfoundland. The Act included provisions permitting English ships to take bait, fish for and cure fish, make oil and cut wood. The Act also disallowed foreign ships from doing the same and did not allow trade with foreign ships. Ships were not permitted from throwing ballast into the local harbours. Persond departing Newfoundland at the end of the fishing season were not permitted to destroy stages and fishing rooms. The master of the first ship to reach a Newfoundland harbour would become the Admiral of the Harbour for that fishing season. The Admirals were required to keep journals of their ships and were responsible to ensure that the rules and orders of British Act were executed. All inhabitants of Newfoundland prior to 1685 would relinquish ownership of all stages and cook rooms upon arrival of the fishing ships. Inhabitants who stayed behind and established stages and cook rooms after 1685 could retain ownership as long as they remained peaceful and did not disturb any other person. Inhabitants could retain and operate By-Boat-Keepers and carry at least two men. All inhabitants were to observe Sunday and tavern operators were not permitted to serve any liquors or tobacco. |
| 18/11/1698 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 16: 1697-1698 | Copy of a letter from William Cock to Commodore Norris. Bonavista, 1 September, 1698. I am heartily glad that so wise, knowing and judicious a person as yourself has been entrusted with the Government of this country, and I wish you all success. Kindly inform me whether the bread which you spared me last year has been paid for or not, for you may command payment from me. Lieutenant Leigh, who bears this, has been for some time settling the affairs of this harbour which were in confusion, but by his prudent management all is adjusted to general satisfaction. On the north side of this bay are many extraordinary harbours and better fishing. One William Wyng has fished for some years fourteen leagues N.W. by N. of this place, and has still exceeded the inhabitants of this considerably. This year one Nevill has been that way and has more fish for his two-men-boats than those here for shallops, so that next summer several inhabitants of this harbour design to remove thither, as also the masters of ships that have fished here this year, for it is certain that the fewer the boats that are kept in a place the better is the fishing. I tell you this that the power of those whom you send this way to settle affairs may extend as far as Cape Frills, that being the northernmost cape of this bay. If a draught of that place were drawn it would greatly encourage shipping to fish this way, there being many secure harbours and roads, and room for 500 sail. |
| 17/09/1699 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 17: 1699 | Capt. Leake from HMS Hampshire answers enquiries about Newfoundland Trade and Plantations. The inhabitants live by catching fish which is then splitted, salted and laid on flakes to dry, which will be six weeks before it be thoroughly cured. Their employment in the winter is by sawing trees to make board for building shallops, and some go a furring, the Western Charter is broken in some particulars. The Colony is not able to support itself, for they have their provisions and necessaries for fishing mostly from England: the commodities which are brought from New England is bread, tobacco, molasses and rum, which is a considerable quantity. They make no destruction of the wood, but the stages that are left behind are generally destroyed by bad weather and inhabitants together. Neither is there any want of wood to build stages. They generally seize on the best fishing places, but do not destroy anything to obstruct the Adventurers. The boat-keepers that stay behind do not begin first to destroy the stages, but what bad weather has occasioned the breach. They have not any supply of cloths, nets and other necessaries for fishing, only some provisions and liquors from New England. The chiefest sustenance the planters receive from land is deer, bear and beaver, which they commonly eat. Their trade is but little as to fur, only the N. parts, viz. Bonavista. The trade between New England and Newfoundland is by the New England men bringing rum and other liquors, which debauch the fishers, who run in debt and commonly hire themselves as servants for the payment. The inhabitants commonly sell their fish cheaper than the fishing ships. The New England men exercise their fishing trade only on their own coast, and take considerable quantities. The Masters do not encourage their men to stay behind, only those which request it when shipped. The New England ships carry away from hence a great many men, there being such great wages given to seamen there. The rules of the Western Charter is generally broke by the Adventurers by coming out of England sooner than the limited time, and in the country by ryneing of trees to cover their houses and cook-rooms. By what I have from several hands that our Bay of Bonavista affords many secure harbours for shipping, I had an order from the Admiralty to make survey of it, but coming so late into the country, lacked time. I am informed it is the best land on the island. I don't doubt but their Lordships will take it into consideration, and send a small vessel early next year on that service; it is a large tract of land and will require at least 3 months' time to take a complete survey thereof, there being a great number of rocks in the bay. Signed, Andw. Leake. |
| 20/08/1701 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 19: 1701 | The inhabitants and Planters of Newfoundland are a poor, indigent, and withall a profuse sort of people that care not at what rates they get into debt, nor what obligations they give, so that they can but have credit, but the seizing of their fish for debts seems to me to be both irregular and unjust as to the time and manner of doing it, and the fishermen seeing the rocks stript before the fishing season is half over are discouraged from proceeding any further, which often proves the ruin and overthrow of severall of the Planters' voyages. Debts were never wont to be paid in Newfoundland till the 20th of August, but for these two or three yeares past the Rocks have been stript by night, and the fish carryed off in June and July, without weighing, a second hath come and taken it from the first, and perhaps the Planter hath had twenty or thirty quintalls of fish spoyled in the scuffle, and the rest of his creditors are forced to go without any satisfaction; nay, the poor Fishermen who helped to take the fish have not one penny wages: salt provisions and craft are all payable here before wages, and considering how poor fishermen are used, I admire how the Planters and Inhabitants procure hands from England to fish for them. Indeed, when complaints of this nature have been made to the Commander-in-Chief, he has ordered the fish to be redelivered and dividend to be made, but my Lords, here is in Newfoundland at least 5 or 6 and 20 several harbours, besides coves, and it's a great way for people to come from Bonavista and Firmooze to St. John's to make their complaints. The Admirals they'l not concern themselves, but leave all to the Commandore. They ought to see to the preservation of peace and good government among the seamen and fishermen, that the orders for the regulation of the fishery be put in execution; and to keep journals, but instead of this, they are the first that break the orders, and there is not of them where I have been that hath kept any Journal. The late Act gives the Planters a title, and it's pity but that they had some Laws and Rules by which they should be govern'd, tho' it's the opinion of all that I have conversed with since I came here, that it had been much better if all Plantations in Newfoundland had been absolutely discouraged, for it's now become a sanctuary or place of refuge for people that break in England, and the Masters of the fishing ships do encourage several of their men to stay behind, persuading them that they will soon get estates here, purely to serve the charges of their passage back to England. |
| 20/08/1701 | Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies, Volume 19: 1701 | It hath been customary for the Commander in Chief upon complaints to send his Lieutenant to several harbours and coves, to decide all differences betwixt Commanders of merchant ships and the Inhabitants and Planters, and betwixt them and their servants. It's truely an absolute shame to hear how matters have been transacted upon such occasions. He that makes a present of the most Quintalls, is sure to have the matter determined in his favour. The whole Country exclaims against the Lieutenants in Capt. Poulton and Fairborne's time, and do not stick to say that some former Commanders in Chief have been a little faulty. The present Commander hath taken a great deal of pains to do the country justice, and to settle Religion amongst them, and everybody seems to be very well satisfied with him. There has never been any account or registry kept of any of the orders or rules that have been made for the good of the fishery; what one Commander in Chief hath confirmed, the next hath vacated. I have prevailed with this to leave an abstract of all such as have been made during his time with the Commission for tryall of Pirates for his successor. Several quarrels and differences happen here after the fishing season is over, and in the rigor of the winter Masters beat servants, and servants their Masters. I would therefore propose that one of the most substantiall inhabitants in every harbour be appointed in the nature of a Justice for preservation of peace and tranquility, and that some person that understands the Laws be sent with the Commander in Chief, or to reside here, in the nature of a Judge-Advocate, to decide all differences and matters of meum and tuum betwixt Masters of ships, Inhabitants, Planters and Servants; that he have a power to administer an oath to parties or witnesses for determination thereof in the most summary way, and that he be obliged to go every year to Bonavista, Trinity, New Perlican, Old Perlican, Carboneer, St. Johns, Bay of Bulls and Ferryland, and to stay a fortnight or three weeks in each of them. He may be usefull here upon several occasions. Besides your Lordships will not fail of a true account, how all matters are transacted in Newfoundland. |
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