The community was
originally called Sandy Bay and was later
changed to Parsons Pond. This name may have come
from a visiting clergyman, Rev. Isaac Parsons or
from a seasonal visitor to the area.
The first census was taken in 1874, and it
showed a population of 18. By 1901, there were
63 residents and in 1911 more than 100.
In 1867, John Silver heard about oil slicks
appearing on nearby Moulting Pond and tried
drilling on its north side. He had to abandon
this because of objections from the French.
Another attempt was made by the Newfoundland Oil
Company in 1894. They struck oil but had to
abandon the operation due to operational
difficulties. Between 1916 and 1926, the General
Oilfields Company of England operated 3 wells
and a small refinery. The quality of the oil was
high, but its quantity was low and these wells
were later abandoned.
The lobster fishery remains an important
employer in the town, as well as the provision
of tourism services since the opening of
Gros Morne National Park. The town was incorporated
in 1966.
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