tales-of-Fogo-Island

ShipwrecksWhen a schooner or other cargo ship ran aground, local men would helpsalvage the wreck. Men that took part in this activity were known as wreckers(pronounced rackers). As payment for their help, the men would be given onethird of the salvaged goods. This was called 'sharing on the thirds'. Theremaining two thirds would be divided between the wreck commission and theowner of the cargo.If the wrecked ship was carrying a 'general cargo' the wreckers could expectto salvage dry goods, food supplies and building materials. These goods wererare treats that could not be found at the local store. Some people recallhaving cans of pudding, fruit, and fresh beef in their homes for the first time inthe days following a shipwreck. One man remembers how they had plenty ofice cream one winter because his father brought home a dozen cases of milk.Others recall how the women would make clothes, fancy curtains and furniturecovers when their husbands came from a wreck with sewing supplies andmaterial.Since shipwrecks meant extra income for wreckers it is not surprising thatthey would try to keep a wreck secret. One man remembers how in 1931, aschooner went aground near the entrance to Stag Harbour. The ship lay onthe rocks with her three masts pointed over White Point. In order to keep hercargo of salt fish for themselves, men from the Harbour went aboard theschooner and cut out her spars. This way, the people of Indian Islands wouldnot see the schooner and come looking for their share of the cargo.THE WRECK OF THE 'LAVENGRO'Lost on Burnt Point Seldom, 1915By George Hynes and Alex HynesAttention all ye wreckers in Notre Dame Bay.Your attention one moment and hear what we say.'Twas late in November you'll all mind the nightWhen a foreign goin' vessel got lost on Burnt Point.