Abstract

Four harbours in Conception Bay, on the northern shore of the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland, became the target of a series of short surveys undertaken by avocational divers with the Newfoundland Marine Archaeology Society. A total of eleven underwater sites were identified at Brigus, Bay Roberts, Harbour Grace and Bristol's Hope. These sites have been registered and include shipwrecks, anchorage points, old wharves, midddens, and related shoreline activity areas. Documentary sources indicate that Conception Bay was known to Europeans in the 16th century and was the first area of English influence in Newfoundland in the early 17th century. The settled population gradually increased and strong mercantile interests were established in the 18th and 19th centuries. Archaeological surveys on land have produced limited historical data for the area and no systematic underwater archaeological surveys had been conducted until this time. The results of the underwater survey in Conception Bay will be discussed. This will include an assessment of the contribution made to the inventory of submerged cultural resources in Newfoundland waters, communications with historical societies and people in local communities to protect the marine heritage, and the experience provided to divers to become involved in archaeological surveys in the province.