[388] Many were smoked, after the manner of herring, and eaten in New England; many more were used as bait for cod-fishing on the Banks. Alewives, in early times, were sometimes used as manure; and shad were salted in tubs, and eaten in the winter. The income from these fisheries may not have been very large, unless we count the support which fish furnished as food; and, in such case, we apprehend the income was great indeed. They gave a needed and most welcome variety in that brief list of eatables with which our fathers were wont to be contented. In 1829, by the enterprise of Mr. John Bishop, the business of mackerel-fishing was attempted. Some of the finest schooners from the fleets of Hingham were purchased, and fitted out in amplest order. Three schooners were built in Medford for this service. But, before two years had elapsed, it was found impossible to compete with Plymouth, Hingham, Gloucester, and Boston. In these places, barrels and salt were cheaper than at Medford, and the common market more accessible, especially in winter.
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[388] Many were smoked, after the manner of herring, and eaten in New England; many more were used as bait for cod-fishing on the Banks. Alewives, in early times, were sometimes used as manure; and shad were salted in tubs, and eaten in the winter. The income from these fisheries may not have been very large, unless we count the support which fish furnished as food; and, in such case, we apprehend the income was great indeed. They gave a needed and most welcome variety in that brief list of eatables with which our fathers were wont to be contented. In 1829, by the enterprise of Mr. John Bishop, the business of mackerel-fishing was attempted. Some of the finest schooners from the fleets of Hingham were purchased, and fitted out in amplest order. Three schooners were built in Medford for this service. But, before two years had elapsed, it was found impossible to compete with Plymouth, Hingham, Gloucester, and Boston. In these places, barrels and salt were cheaper than at Medford, and the common market more accessible, especially in winter.
John Wilson and son. 22 School Street. Boston. 1855.
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