Port Hope Simpson Today
This crucible of political, economic and social factors has been influential in the development of the town. Different characters, government officials and policies, the availability of work and how well its people have adapted to changing economic circumstances have combined together to explain the nature of its growth. When the Labrador Development Company left in 1948 leaving confusion, bitterness and a hoary, wild west reputation in its wake, paid work in the woods left with it until Bowater arrived 14 years later.
New economic activity took place between 1962 and 1968 as Bowater picked-up the thread laid down by Williams, Simpson and the Labrador Development Company. More trees were felled for their pulp and paper mills at Corner Brook, and in Kent, England. Bowater brought benefits of regular paid employment (though seasonal), twenty miles of forest roads and the government contributed by sharing the cost of building a new wharf. But by 1970, apart from the post office, the general store and the two schools there was no year-round paid employment.
From 1970 to 1992 cod and salmon fishing was the economic mainstay of the area but unemployment prevailed most of the year. In 1992 the cod fishery was closed down altogether. However, many local fishermen made a relatively easy transition into crab, shrimp and scallop fishing.
In 1996, Port Hope Simpson was granted the town status. A manufacturing industry has developed by diversification into boat-building. The construction works of the Trans-Labrador Highway and the new Port Hope Simpson bridge and the airport have done much to increase accessibility. Improved accessibility has been crucial in bringing visitors to the town.
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