Both Jay and I unanimously thought that Petty Harbour was the most interesting place we visited in Newfoundland. It combined great locals, history, a beautiful scenic community, surrounding cliffs and a unique harbour front and view of the ocean.
In the pictures you will find pictures of each. We took a detour driving up a narrow road that winded up the cliff face. We were nervous that the car would not make it and smelled burning which we hoped would not result in a burned out transmission of the rental car. At the top of the cliff we found of all thing a basketball court. And beyond the court we found a cemetery that boasts the greatest view I have ever seen. This setting left the tombstones weathered and clinging to existence (leaning and often protected with barriers) The people laying underneath these stones suffered similar fates at the hands of the elements with many young adults and children are resting here. Only a hand full of surnames marked those stones. Chafe, Stack and Everard's who have once indubitably ruled the shores of Petty Harbour.
Note the following definition: harbour(s); a haven or space of deep water so sheltered by the adjacent land as to afford a safe anchorage for ships. This is a perfect description of Petty Harbour.
Some history and facts. population of 950. The site has been continuously occupied since at least 1598, predating the arrival of the Mayflower and making it one of the oldest European settlements in North America. It is nestled deep in the heart of Motion Bay. Due to its beauty it has been the setting for many films and stories. My dad's favourite movie Orca was filmed there.
We met a young guy at a pub in St. John's later one night. This guy was full of life and good cheer. His spirit indicative of a true Newfoundlander. With little effort or intention he made all of us visitors reevaluate how we look at life. He was also from Petty Harbour. Go figure.
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