Formal Recognition Type

Fisheries Heritage Preservation Program

Notes

The Leonard McLean Property is one of the oldest original gear sheds left in Green Island Cove and is unique in the region for its steeply pitched gable roof covered with match lumber. It was built by Leonard (Scotchman) McLean. Until recently, people of Scottish decent in the community were often referred to as “Scotchman.” It was traditionally used as a storage shed for fishing gear and is still used for this purpose today. Leonard’s son, Everton McLean Sr., has witnessed the loss of many traditional fisheries buildings in Green Island Cove. Some of these have been replaced with new buildings using modern materials. Everton felt that his father’s shed was worth saving as an example of the type of fishing shed once common in the community and applied for restoration assistance under the Fisheries Heritage Preservation Program. Over the years, much of the original wood used in the construction of the shed had rotted. The south side of the building had settled into the ground, floor boards and floor joists were rotted and the roof leaked as the cladding had deteriorated. During the restoration process, the entire building was jacked up in order to secure the south side wall. The wall had become unstable to the point that jacking up this wall alone would put too much pressure on the structure. Windows based on the original designs also had to be reconstructed. In addition, repairs were made to the roof, clapboard, door and bridge. With a fresh coat of red paint, the building once again has a place of pride in Green Island Cove.

Community

Green Island Cove

Municipality

Not specified (Newfoundland)

Construction (circa)

1940 - 1945

Builder

Leonard McLean

Style

Square