A few pictures (MUN Archives) of the end of an era, and though it is likely the second-most significant change ever in rural Newfoundland, it certainly gives the first-place cod moratorium a run for its money.
Post-Confederation, but before the Trans Canada Highway was built and provided our first reliable form of overland travel. Highways, called high or back roads here at the time, were little more than horse paths and every community on the island was instead serviced by the "coastal boat." Dozens of them circled the island ceaselessly and, in contrast to today's ferries, they almost all ended up in St. John's.
People would put on their Sunday best to catch the ferry...
And spend a few days shopping or looking for work in St. John's...
Boat travel was the norm - and I love being in a boat so much I think I would've very much enjoyed that. I love it perhaps even more than I love being in a tram.