Image Licensing : Inner harbour, northern ride, Mevagissey, Cornwall. 1909

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print from 1909 transports us back in time to the inner harbour of Mevagissey, Cornwall. The scene depicts a picturesque view of a group of fishing boats gently bobbing on the tranquil waters. Among them, we can identify the FY354 Primrose, FY759, FY181, and FY61 vessels. The photographer behind this remarkable snapshot is Herbert Hughes, whose keen eye for detail has beautifully captured the essence of Cornish maritime life over a century ago. The image exudes an undeniable sense of nostalgia as it showcases the bustling activity within the harbor. As we gaze upon this historic photograph, we are transported into a world where hardworking fishermen would set sail each day to provide for their families and community. The sturdy fishing boats proudly display their unique identification numbers painted on their hulls—a testament to both individuality and unity among these seafaring vessels. The composition evokes a sense of tranquility with its calm waters reflecting the surrounding buildings that line the harbor's edge. It is evident that Mevagissey was not only a place of labor but also one where beauty harmoniously coexisted with industry. This print serves as an invaluable window into Cornwall's rich maritime heritage—an homage to those who braved unpredictable seas in pursuit of sustenance for their loved ones. It stands as a reminder that even today, amidst modernization and change, echoes of our past continue to shape our present identity in profound ways.