Burin Peninsula facts for kids

The Burin Peninsula is a piece of land that sticks out into the Atlantic Ocean from the south coast of the island of Newfoundland. It's part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. This peninsula is known for its rugged coastline, small fishing towns, and rich history connected to the sea.

What is the Burin Peninsula?

The Burin Peninsula is a large landmass shaped like a boot. It reaches out into the ocean, creating many bays and coves. It's connected to the main part of Newfoundland by a narrow strip of land.

Where is the Burin Peninsula Located?

You can find the Burin Peninsula on the southern edge of Newfoundland. It's surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on three sides. This location has made it important for fishing and shipping for hundreds of years.

How Big is the Burin Peninsula?

The peninsula stretches for about 130 kilometers (80 miles) from north to south. It's about 40 kilometers (25 miles) wide at its widest point. Many small communities are spread out along its coast.

History of the Burin Peninsula

The history of the Burin Peninsula is closely tied to the ocean. People have lived here for a very long time, using the sea for food and travel.

Early Settlers

Indigenous peoples, like the Beothuk and Mi'kmaq, lived on the land long before European explorers arrived. Later, European fishers, especially from England and France, started visiting the area in the 1500s. They came to catch the rich cod fish found in the nearby waters.

Fishing and Community Life

Over time, small fishing villages grew on the peninsula. People built homes close to the water, and their lives revolved around fishing. They would catch cod, dry it, and trade it with other countries. This way of life shaped the culture and traditions of the communities.

The 1929 Tsunami

One important event in the peninsula's history was a powerful tsunami in 1929. An earthquake far out at sea caused huge waves to crash onto the coast. This event caused a lot of damage and changed many communities. People worked together to rebuild after this natural disaster.

Life on the Burin Peninsula Today

Today, the Burin Peninsula is still home to many small towns. While fishing remains important, other industries have also grown.

Main Communities

Some of the larger towns on the peninsula include Burin, Marystown, and Grand Bank. These towns serve as centers for the smaller villages around them. They have schools, shops, and healthcare services.

Economy and Jobs

Fishing is still a big part of the economy, but it has changed over the years. There are also jobs in shipbuilding, fish processing, and local services. Tourism is also growing, as visitors come to see the beautiful scenery and learn about the area's history.

Nature and Wildlife

The Burin Peninsula is a great place to see nature. You can spot whales, seals, and many kinds of birds along the coast. The landscape includes rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and quiet forests. It's a perfect spot for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the outdoors.