Changes to Swim’s Point

by D. O'Connell

Swim's Point, Clark's Harbour was first settled by Michael Swim in the early 1800's. His nearest neighbor was Daniel Vinson at South Side. This was one of the least favourable places because of the lack of forests which were used for their homes, plus their fuel. When he received his grant, he was given another piece of property which was a woodlot. The woodlot was not close at hand as in other areas. The grants were given on the condition that a certain amount of land be cleared for pastures. This was a difficult task because as the land was cleared the rocks were uncovered, plus the tools were made mostly by hand and very, very crude.

Michael chose Swim's Point to settle, in spite of the difficulties, because of the fishing grounds which were close at hand. It was easier at that time to be close to the fishing grounds. There were no roads and all travel was done by boat. It would have taken considerable time to get to the fishing grounds from other areas.