Trinity Bay North
Trinity Bay North | |
|---|---|
Town | |
  Trinity Bay North Location of Trinity Bay North in Newfoundland | |
| Coordinates: 48°29′52.07″N 53°5′9.44″W / 48.4977972°N 53.0859556°W | |
| Country |  Canada |
| Province |  Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Incorporated | 2005 |
| Government | |
| • Mayor | Dean Lodge |
| Area | |
• Total | 25.43 km2 (9.82 sq mi) |
| Population (2021) | |
• Total | 1,649 |
| • Density | 71.5/km2 (185/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC-3:30 (Newfoundland Time) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-2:30 (Newfoundland Daylight) |
| Area code | 709 |
| Highways |  Route 230 Route 237 |
| Website | Trinity Bay North official website |
Trinity Bay North is a town in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is located at the northern tip of Trinity Bay. It was established on January 1, 2005, through the amalgamation of several smaller communities, including Catalina, Port Union, Melrose, and Little Catalina. The town is known for its strong ties to Newfoundland's fishing heritage and its scenic coastal landscapes.
History
[edit]The history of Trinity Bay North is deeply intertwined with the fishing heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. The town was officially established on January 1, 2005, through the amalgamation of four communities: Catalina, Port Union, Melrose, and Little Catalina. Each of these communities has a distinct story, contributing to the town's collective identity. [1]
Catalina is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with roots dating back to the 18th century. It was a hub for cod fishing and played a significant role in Newfoundland's maritime economy. In the early 20th century, Catalina emerged as a progressive community, establishing the Joseph Clouter Free Public Library in 1937. This library, the first outside St. John’s, reflected the community’s emphasis on education and culture. Today, Catalina remains a picturesque coastal village, preserving much of its historical charm.
Port Union is often referred to as the jewel of Trinity Bay North due to its unique history as the only union-built town in North America. It was founded in 1916 by Sir William Ford Coaker, the leader of the Fishermen’s Protective Union (FPU). Coaker envisioned a self-sufficient community where fishermen could live and work under fairer conditions. Port Union became the FPU's headquarters and featured modern amenities for its time, including housing, a fish plant, and a printing press, which published the influential newspaper "The Fishermen’s Advocate."[2]
Port Union was designed with workers' welfare in mind, making it a landmark in Newfoundland's labor history. Today, the Port Union National Historic District preserves the legacy of the FPU and serves as a reminder of the town's pivotal role in advocating for workers' rights. [3]
Melrose, known as Ragged Harbour until 1904, Melrose has long been a small, close-knit fishing community. Like its neighbors, Melrose relied heavily on cod fishing for economic survival. Its rebranding in the early 20th century reflected a desire to modernize and distinguish itself. Melrose's serene rural setting and proximity to hiking trails and natural attractions make it a popular spot for visitors exploring the region.
Little Catalina is a community steeped in natural beauty. Its location along the rugged coastline makes it a gateway to some of the area’s most popular trails, such as the Little Catalina to Maberly Trail, which offers stunning views of cliffs, sea stacks, and wildlife. The town's history is tied to the traditional fishing economy, and it remains a quiet village where visitors can experience Newfoundland’s natural and cultural heritage.
The amalgamation of these four communities into Trinity Bay North was driven by several factors:
-Economic Necessity: The collapse of the cod fishery in the 1990s had a profound impact on the region. Uniting the communities allowed for a more coordinated approach to addressing economic challenges and developing new opportunities, such as tourism.
-Shared Resources: Amalgamation enabled the towns to pool their resources for better infrastructure, public services, and municipal management.
Demographics
[edit]In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Trinity Bay North had a population of 1,649 living in 778 of its 886 total private dwellings, a change of -9.3% from its 2016 population of 1,819.[4] With a land area of 26.19 km2 (10.11 sq mi), it had a population density of 63.0/km2 (163.1/sq mi) in 2021.[5]
Government
[edit]The mayor of Trinity Bay North is Dean Lodge.[6]
The deputy mayor of Trinity Bay North is Terence Stead.[6]
The council focuses on maintaining infrastructure, providing essential services, and supporting community initiatives to foster economic and social development.
Attractions
[edit]The town offers a variety of attractions:
Port Union National Historic District: A designated historic site showcasing the Fishermen’s Protective Union's impact on Newfoundland’s history.
Murphy’s Cove – Lodge’s Pond Trail: A scenic trail that highlights the rugged beauty of the coastline, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Little Catalina to Maberly Trail: This trail offers breathtaking views of cliffs, sea stacks, and the open Atlantic.
Joseph Clouter Free Public Library: A symbol of the community’s dedication to education and culture, the library was established with a donation of 500 books by Joseph Clouter, a former resident.
Community and Events
[edit]The town hosts several community organizations and events:
Trinity Bay North Fire Department: A volunteer-led organization ensuring public safety.
Golden Hind Sea Cadet Corps: Engages local youth in maritime traditions and skills.
Annual events and cultural programs, often in collaboration with nearby towns, celebrate the area’s heritage and community spirit.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ https://www.trinitybaynorth.com/
- ^ http://www.historicportunion.ca/en/index.html
- ^ http://www.historicportunion.ca/en/index.html
- ^ "Census Profile". 2016 census. Statistics Canada. 8 February 2017.
- ^ "Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census divisions and census subdivisions (municipalities), Newfoundland and Labrador". Statistics Canada. February 9, 2022. Retrieved March 15, 2022.
- ^ a b "Current council". Town of Trinity Bay North. Retrieved 4 December 2021.
48°29′52.07″N 53°5′9.44″W / 48.4977972°N 53.0859556°W
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