This picture shows a shift beginning its journey into the depths of Number 3 mine, which was opened in 1919. Ironically, the area of the Island from which these men were descending into the dark had become known as Wabana - "the place where the light first shines." This name, derived from the Abenaki language, was the invention of a company official and was suggested by the Island's close proximity to the most easterly point of land in North America. The contrast between the damp darkness of their working place and the luminescence suggested by the name Wabana stands as an image of Bell Island's entire history as an industrial town. Like most mining folk Bell Islanders lived on an economic roller coaster. They knew both good times and bad. often in rapid succession. Success could bring great prosperity, at least in Newfoundland terms, but even when things were going well it was hard to forget the spectre of closure which haunted the town. The material basis of life on Bell Island was influenced by decisions made far beyond its shores - decisions which were beyond the power of any Newfoundlander to control. It was at best precarious. The psychological price paid for this dependence although it can only be guessed at was real enough.
