History

Governor Williams

Williamsport, originally named Greenspond, was founded by William Brenton. The community was also known by its French name Forche Harbour. The name was changed to Williamsport in the 20th century to honour Newfoundland Governor Sir Ralph Champneys Williams, who was governor from 1909-1913.

Sharing a similar beginning as other Newfoundland outports, Williamsport had its early roots in the fishery. However, Williamsport was more renowned for its strong history as a commercial whaling station.

The Newfoundland shore-station whaling industry had been ongoing since the 1500's. Countries from around the world exploited the resource for its rich whale oil and valuable whale bone. The industry enjoyed a marked revival in Newfoundland as postwar demand for whale products soared. A new station was opened at Williamsport in 1945.

The Japanese invested heavily in the newfoundland industry and used the meat for human consumption back in Japan. Taiyo Gyogyo K.K. entered into a partnership with Arctic Fishery Products to form the Atlantic Whaling Co. Ltd. The new company processed 1248 fin, humpback and sei whales at Williamsport between 1967 and 1972 producing 33,063 barrels of oil.

A Canadian moratorium on commercial whaling in 1972 forced the closure of the Williamsport station, ending more than 400 years of traditional and modern commercial whaling in Newfoundland. It also meant the end to the viability of this remote community. Visitors can still see the remnants of the once vibrant Williamsport as a few structures still remain, including the machinery and storage facilities used for the commercial whaling operation.