Fermeuse - Newfoundland and Labrador

Maps dated from the early 1500s refer to the area as R.fermoso and Rio Fremoze. There is no agreement on the meaning of the word, some believe that it is a derivative of Fermosa which means beauty.

Settlement Fermeuse harbour was not settled until the 1700s, when formerly migratory fishermen from England decide to settle. By the late 1700s and into the 1800s Irish settlement increased.

Interesting Facts
• 1677, summer population is estimated to be around 160 men.
• 1732, census records indicate Fermeuse has 32 English masters, 267 male servants, 1 wife, 1 female servant, 40 children and 35 male Irish fishing servants.
• 1732, a Justice of the Peace and police constable are appointed to the community.
• 1845, first Roman Catholic Church opens.
• 1874, cod liver oil factory and lobster processing factory employ many residents.
• 1905, Michael Shallow (born in Fermeuse 1874) becomes British Empire Heavyweight Boxing Champion.
• 1967, Fermeuse is incorporated.
• 1990, the Fermeuse Marine Centre is constructed by the Federal Government for the repair and maintenance of fishing vessels.

Information Courtesy of The Irish Loop Development Board