Lewisporte

Origin of Name: Lewisporte is named for Lewis Miller, a Scottish businessmen who operated a logging company in central Newfoundland.

Population: 3,709 (1996) Protestant

Early Settlement: First European settlers arrived in the late 1800s attracted to the large stands of birch spruce and pine which covered the shores. Timber, logging and farming became the main industries.

Employment: While timber was the early employer, Lewisporte now supports an economy based on fishing (include. crab, shrimp, and scallops) wholesale and retail distribution, transportation and the service industry.

Interesting Facts about Lewisporte

• 1876, Pioneer of Lewisporte, Robert Woolfrey becomes first permanent European settler.
• 1899, First railways tracks linking Lewisporte with Notre Dame Junction are laid.
• 1870s to 1920, Lewisporte's population's expands dramatically with the growth of the Labrador fishery. Becomes known as the Gateway to the North.
• 1900, Lewisporte becomes the railhead for Notre Dame Bay, soon becomes a main supply community for the surrounding area.
• 1914, The first United Church is constructed.
• 1929, First resident physician, Dr. Knapp sets up office in Lewisporte.
• 1944, First theater is opened by Mr. E. Bursey.
• 1946, June 19, Lewisporte is incorporated as a town with Mr. Albert Anstey as its first mayor.
• 1960, Pentecostal High School is constructed.

Local Museums: Museum by the Bay and Spinning Wheel Craft Shop, and Lewisporte Train Park.