Tucked away along the rugged coastline of Bonavista Bay lies Newtown, Newfoundland and Labrador, a community often called “The Venice of Newfoundland.” With its winding inlets, narrow channels, and houses perched at the water’s edge, it’s easy to see why. At the heart of this picturesque setting stands the Barbour Living Heritage Village, a carefully preserved glimpse into the province’s storied fishing past.

A Step Back in Time

The Barbour site is a collection of brightly painted saltbox houses and traditional outbuildings, most of them painted the iconic yellow that immediately catches your eye. These structures once belonged to the prosperous Barbour family, who built a mercantile empire here during the height of the Labrador fishery in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Walking among them today feels like stepping directly into another era, when schooners filled the harbour and the fish trade powered local life.

Life by the Sea

The harbour is still lined with wharves, fishing stages, and boats, echoing the rhythms of the community’s roots. You can almost imagine the bustle of men hauling cod from their nets, while families salted and dried the catch along the shore. The Barbour family’s success made Newtown a hub of commerce, and their grand houses reflect both the prosperity and resilience of life lived in a remote outport.

"Living History Experience"

Unlike a static museum, the heritage village brings history alive. Interpretive programs, guided tours, and seasonal events share the stories of not just the Barbours, but also the countless fisherfolk who carved a living from the sea. From the merchant’s office to the family kitchens, each space reveals the challenges and ingenuity that shaped Newfoundland’s culture.

A Coastal Treasure

Beyond history, the Barbour site is a feast for the senses. The salty breeze drifts in from Bonavista Bay, seabirds circle overhead, and the pastel sky reflects in the calm water between the houses. It’s a place where heritage and landscape intertwine so seamlessly that even a quiet stroll feels like part of the story.