Explore
Google map
Description
Note: First picture taken after restoration, second picture taken before restoration.
The Fortune Fishing Sheds are a collection of fisheries structures and their associated wharfs, walkways and slipways. Built between 1900 and 1970, the sheds have been used for the same purpose over several generations, namely the storage of fish and fishing gear.
The sheds are aligned with the road passing behind them and their facades create an almost unbroken line on the sea-facing side. Most have low pitched gable roofs and most buildings stand one storey high. Raised wooden walkways, wooden wharfs and wooden slipways are located adjacent to some of the stages. As is typical with fisheries structures, recycled building materials were used in the construction of many of the sheds.
The sheds are an important feature of the harbour front in Fortune. Heritage Fortune Incorporated recognized the value of this collection of buildings to the community and applied to the Fisheries Heritage Preservation Program to aid in the restoration and stabilization of the sheds. Some sheds had damaged roofs, their exterior cladding was dilapidated and wharfs, cribbing and foundations were in need of repair.
By the end of the restoration project in 2004, roofs had been refurbished with new shingles or felt, new clapboard, doors and windows were installed, foundations were strengthened and repairs made to cribbing and stage heads. The finishing touch was a fresh coat of paint using traditional colour schemes. Located parallel to a large modern wharf, the sheds remain as a reminder of way of life that sustained Fortune for generations.
