Musgrave Harbour, a town and designated place in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a destination rich in history and natural beauty. This article will take you on a journey through its past, its present, and its attractions.
Musgrave Harbour, originally known as Muddy Hole, is a fishing community that has been visited by Europeans as early as the 18th century. The town was renamed in 1886 in honor of Governor Anthony Musgrave. George Skeffington from Bonavista was granted salmon fishing rights there in 1723, marking the beginning of the town's long history with the fishing industry.
In the 19th century, the migratory fishery between Musgrave Harbour and Cape Freels led to permanent settlement. The first family to settle was John Whiteway's in 1834. By 1900, Musgrave Harbour had become the administrative and religious center of Hamilton Sound. However, its poor harbour prevented it from becoming a commercial center.
The introduction of the gasoline engine by Tobias Abbott of Doting Cove in 1909 marked a shift from the Labrador fishery to the inshore fishery. The town also became active in the Fisherman's Protective Union movement, establishing a local council in 1909. By 1911, the population had grown to 433 in Musgrave Harbour, 458 in Doting Cove, and 49 at Ragged Harbour.
In 1941, Musgrave Harbour was the site of a tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Dr. Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin. The Hudson Bomber, en route to England, experienced engine trouble shortly after leaving Gander. The crew attempted to return to Gander but didn't make it. Captain Joseph Mackey was the only survivor.
Located within Division No. 8 in Newfoundland, Musgrave Harbour is situated on the Kittiwake Coast near the Town of Gander.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Musgrave Harbour had a population of 946 living in 413 of its 486 total private dwellings. This represented a -4.4% change from its 2016 population of 990. With a land area of 67.3 km2 (26.0 sq mi), the town had a population density of 14.1/km2 (36.4/sq mi) in 2021.
Musgrave Harbour offers several attractions for visitors. The local park, named after Sir Frederick Banting, features an interpretation center dedicated to Dr. Banting and the 1941 plane crash. The wreckage of the plane was airlifted to the park in 1990.
St. Luke's United Church, located in the center of Musgrave Harbour, is a sightworthy church. The War Memorial in front of the post office is also worth a visit. Notably, the town is the birthplace of early architect William Tuff Whiteway.
