Introduction
Newfoundland’s intricate coastline has an everlasting effect on Seafarers. Despite the satellites that guide ships in the oceans today, ports like St. John Harbours were the lifelines for decades and hold a legacy impossible to erase. There are numerous reasons why Newfoundland was a lifeline; the region, the natural harbours, the rich maritime culture, and most importantly the ports of refuge. Newfoundland has a long history of rescuing shipwrecked crews, and opening their homes to survivors. It was particularly during World War 1 and 2 that Newfoundland served as a naval base of aid for escorting convoys across the Atlantic. It also served as a medical, recovery and resting designation for allied ships. St. Johns Harbour became one of the most significant ports of the Atlantic. In January 1941, more than 50 ships took shelter there at once through the war, and the port cared for over 6,000 survivors of shipwrecks, posing as a safe haven for thousands of sailors.
Have you or someone you know ever arrived through the Port of St. John’s? We’d love to hear your story, share your experience in the comments!
