Early Development
Five hundred years ago, the port had been important for the many explorers, colonists, and fishing fleets which established the area’s original economy. After John Cabot’s voyage in 1497, rumors quickly spread about the abundance of fish off the shores of Newfoundland. By the mid 1500’s, this very sheltered and well-known harbour was used as a rendezvous site for ships from many European nations. From a site in the port in 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert took formal possession of Newfoundland in the name of Queen Elizabeth I, establishing the oldest colony of the British Empire. |
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Up to the mid 1900's
Gradually, St. John’s developed away from the fishing industry. By the late 1700’s, the inhabitants were turning to commercial activities that catered to the needs of the thousands of people who came to fish in Newfoundland waters every year. Early in the life of Newfoundland, roads were few so St. John’s grew as a centre for exporting fish products and distributing consumer goods to the rest of Newfoundland and Labrador. During both World Wars, the port, owing to its natural protection, was valuable to the Allies.
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Mid to late 1900's
During the 1950’s, after Newfoundland joined Confederation, the port failed to keep pace with the surrounding general expansion. Transit sheds and warehouses were inadequate and congested, and the docks were in need of replacement. A rejuvenation of the harbour was subsequently completed in 1963, including a modern cargo terminal, marginal wharf and an access road. Investments by both the Port Authority and the private sector continue to ensure that the port keeps pace with modern container handling methods and participates in opportunities such as offshore oil exploration and development. |
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Today
Modern berths and cargo terminals, excellent repair facilities, a skilled labour force and modern cargo handling equipment are major attributes of this naturally sheltered harbour. The Port of St. John’s serves ships of many nations engaged in the transportation of containerized and bulk cargoes, the fishing industry, the cruise industry and activities in support of oil exploration and development off Canada’s east coast. The port continues to be a critical link in the economic and social growth of St. John’s and Newfoundland and Labrador. |
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