Ferryland: A Chronicle of Coastal Resilience and Early Settlement
An in-depth exploration of Ferryland's historical significance and its enduring connection to the sea.
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Ferryland: An Introduction
Geographic Context
Ferryland is a notable town situated on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Its strategic coastal location has profoundly shaped its history and development.
Early Establishment
The settlement of Ferryland traces its origins back to the late 16th century, initially serving as a vital station for migratory fishermen. Its name, derived from variations like "Farilham" (Portuguese) and "Forillon" (French), reflects its early international maritime connections.
Governance and Motto
As a Town Council, Ferryland is led by Mayor Aidan Costello. The community's enduring spirit is encapsulated in its motto: "Tolerance, Courage, Endurance." The town was officially settled in 1621, marking a significant point in its colonial history.
Seventeenth Century Settlement
Maritime Hub and Name Origins
By the 1590s, Ferryland had emerged as one of Newfoundland's most frequented fishing harbours, recognized even by Sir Walter Raleigh. The name "Ferryland" evolved from the Portuguese "Farilham" and the French "Forillon," underscoring its historical role in European maritime activities.
Colonial Charters and Foundations
In the early 17th century, the land was granted by charter to the London and Bristol Company. Subsequently, George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, acquired these holdings. He appointed Edward Wynne to establish a colony, which became Newfoundland's first successful permanent settlement, growing to approximately 100 inhabitants by 1625. Calvert's grant was formalized by the Charter of Avalon in 1623, creating the Province of Avalon and designating Ferryland as its principal settlement area.
Conflict and Rediscovery
During the 1660s, the colony faced attacks from the Dutch. Later, in 1696, the town was destroyed by French forces during the Avalon Peninsula Campaign of King William's War. Although largely forgotten for centuries, systematic excavations of the original settlement commenced in the late 1980s and continue to this day, revealing invaluable historical insights.
Historic Designations
Recognizing Heritage Value
Ferryland's historical significance is formally recognized through several designations:
- The site of the 17th-century Colony of Avalon was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1953.
- It was further recognized as a Municipal Heritage District in 1998.
- The Historic Ferryland Museum received designation as a Municipal Heritage Site in 2006.
Demographic Profile
Population and Density
According to the 2021 Canadian census conducted by Statistics Canada, Ferryland had a population of 371 residents. These individuals resided in 191 private dwellings out of a total of 252. The population reflects a decrease of 10.4% from the 2016 census figure of 414.
Area and Density Metrics
Ferryland encompasses a land area of 13.22 square kilometers (5.10 square miles). In 2021, this resulted in a population density of approximately 28.1 persons per square kilometer (72.7 persons per square mile).
Elevation
The town is situated at an elevation of 48 meters (157 feet) above sea level.
Visual Archive
Excavated Mansion Foundation
This image depicts the excavated foundation of a significant mansion house, offering a tangible glimpse into the historical structures present at the Ferryland settlement site.
Historical Cartography
Two historical maps are preserved, illustrating Ferryland as depicted around 1663 (by James Yonge) and 1693. These cartographic records provide valuable insights into the town's layout and development during the 17th century.
Related Information
Further Exploration
To deepen your understanding, consider exploring the following related topics:
- List of lighthouses in Canada
- British colonization of the Americas
- List of municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador
- Sara Kirke
- Erasmus Stourton
- Ron Hynes
- James Tuck (archaeologist)
Scholarly Sources
External Resources
Official and Archival Links
- Official Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Website – Ferryland
- Ferryland – Encyclopedia of Newfoundland and Labrador, vol. 2, pp. 50–60.
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References
References
- Colony of Avalon
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or up-to-date. It is presented in the style of an academic resource for educational context.
This is not professional historical or geographical advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consulting primary sources, official historical records, or seeking expert consultation for specific research needs. Always verify information with authoritative sources.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.