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The isolated community of McCallum, apart from the satellite dishes, is probably most reminiscent of the typical Newfoundland outport that would have existed prior to the 1900's. Access to McCallum is by air or boat only. The community is approximately a 90 minute ferry ride from Hermitage and the ferry runs once a day. The community is situated in a relatively enclosed harbour situated between two hills sheltering it from the rough Atlantic Seas. Travel around the community is primarily by foot, and one is able to canvas the entire community on a series of boardwalks and paths. Like days gone by, vegetable gardens can be spotted throughout the community.
Originally known as Bonne Bay, in the early 1900's the community became know as McCallum, named for the Newfoundland Governor of the day, Sir Henry E. McCallum. During the resettlement period of Newfoundland's history McCallum's population grew as people from some of the smaller surrounding communities moved there. McCallum, like most outports in Newfoundland survived on the fishery. In the early days herring was the primary catch. In addition, during the late 1800's whaling had an impact on the community in the form of a whale factory.
Most people in McCallum are still very active in the inshore fishery. To get a feeling as to what outport Newfoundland was really like a visit to McCallum is a must.
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