Our first stop on the trip was the Boyd's Cove Beothuk site. Discovered by archaeologists in 1981, the site features the remains of a village used by the now-extinct Beothuk people of Newfoundland. Since the death of the last Beothuk, Shanawdithit, in 1829, archaeologists have struggled to learn more about their culture through the remains they left behind. The site at Boyd's Cove proved to be valuable in yielding a wealth of artifacts that help to shape our understanding of how these people lived.
- When European fishermen would return home during the winter, the Beothuk would take the metal nails used in their fishermen's structures and would fashion them into tools such as arrowheads and fish hooks. They did not make metal themselves.
- The Beothuk covered themselves, and most of their belongings, in a mixture of red ochre and animal fat. This mixture was used as sunscreen and insect repellent, and lead Europeans to call the Beothuk and similar tribes "Red Indians".
The site of the village is now covered in grass, but it remains clear of trees and the distinct rings that formed the boundaries of the pit houses are visible. It is easy to see why the Beothuk chose this site in particular, as it is located close to the sea shore and next to a running stream that would have been a source of fresh water. It is sad to think that the Beothuk are gone today as a result of their contact with Europeans, who brought conflict, disease and starvation.
We first headed up to the Long Point Lighthouse, hoping to get some views across the bay and over the ocean. Unforunately, the lighthouse was shrouded in fog so thick we could barely see the sea below the cliffs. We did return later in the day when the fog had cleared and were amazed by the view.
After a quick fish n' chips (with dressing and gravy, of course) we started to head back to Lewisporte, but not before a second hike out to see a natural arch in Lower Little Harbour. When we finally reached the arch, we were pleasantly surprised to see a small iceberg perfectly framed beneath it. Much fun was then had by trying to break one of the chunks that had come off the iceberg by throwing rocks at it (throwing rocks at things floating in the sea = Luke's favourite pastime).
Here's some more photos from our trip.