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December 1999
Owl's Head Memorial Group
by Karl and Pat Richardson
"In these communities we don't need to be reminded
of the dangers of earning our living from the sea", said Karl
Richardson, chairman of the newly-formed Owl's Head and Area Fishermen/Fisherwomen
Memorial Group. "Tragedy has touched our lives far too often.
However, if a material object such as a memorial or park can in
some way help ease the pain, unite a community, or remind sea-going
people of the dangers they face, then the ideas of this group are
worthwhile", he said.
The memorial group was formed on October 18th at a
meeting in the home of Frank and Connie Stevens, Owl's Head, with
12 people in attendance. The meeting focused on the reasons for
such a memorial, its location, what type of memorial would be appropriate,
and how the project should evolve. Because the Owl's Head and Little
Harbour wharves are home to fishing boats from other Loop communities,
it seemed right that Ship Harbour, DeBaie's Cove, Souwest Cove,
Clam Bay, Clam Harbour, and Lake Charlotte also be included in the
group.
All present at the meeting agreed that the term "fisher",
currently in use to describe a person whose occupation is fishing,
is inappropriate. The group's name thus became Owl's Head and Area
Fishermen/Fisherwomen Memorial Group.
The group established four primary goals:
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1. To create a lasting memorial to fishermen/fisherwomen
from these communities who were lost at sea.
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2. To focus attention on the dangers of earning
a living at sea.
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3. To develop a sustainable and safe ocean
environment where fishermen/fisherwomen, small boat operators,
kayakers and visitors can find enjoyment.
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4. To develop a spirit of cooperation and
unity within our communities.
The results of these goals will be measurable through the involvement
of the communities and improved awareness of our environment, increasing
our exposure in other parts of Nova Scotia and Canada, and ultimately
bringing greater social and financial rewards.
The group also decided that rather than just one
fixed monument, the memorial could become a park encompassing a
number of locations and ideas. A fixed memorial and a small boat
/kayak launch site will be built in Owl's Head, with a hiking trail
from Souwest Cove to the site of the former Owl's Head lighthouse.
Other projects will be considered and developed as the group grows.
It was agreed that work on the memorial park in
Owl's Head will begin at once, with a completion date prior to Dec.
31, 2000. Planning and development of the launch and trail will
be carried on in conjunction with park work.
It was also agreed that the Eastern Shore Rowathon
be recognized as an event sponsored by the Owl's Head and area group.
Elections resulted in a slate of officers including Karl Richardson
as chairman, Frank Stevens vice-chairman, and Helen Stevens Laybolt
secretary-treasurer.
Since the October meeting, the executive has met
with representatives of HRDA and completed an application for funding
from the Canada Millennium Partnership Program. They have accepted
from Frank and Connie Stevens a donation of land overlooking Owl's
Head Harbour, have begun clearing the land, and will begin in December
to do the actual planning for the park and memorial.
Anyone interested in participating or joining the
group can contact members or call Karl Richardson at 902-845-2491
or email Owl's Head
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