Vikings of to-day: Or, life and medical work among the fishermen of Labrador

About this book

"Vikings of to-day : Or, life and medical work among the fishermen of Labrador" by Wilfred T. Grenfell is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work details the experiences and challenges faced by Grenfell and the Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen as they provide medical and spiritual aid to the fishing communities inhabiting the harsh and remote landscape of Labrador. With an emphasis on both the land and people, it paints a picture of resilience and hardship, highlighting the day-to-day realities and daring spirit of those living on the edge of survival. The opening of the book sets the stage with a preface from Frederick Treves, emphasizing the contrast between modern society's perceived decline in vigor and the enduring toughness of Labrador's fishermen. The author then provides a comprehensive picture of Labrador’s geography, climate, flora, fauna, and the stark difficulties faced by its inhabitants—including their history, the landscape's unyielding nature, and the legacy of exploration going back to the age of the Vikings. Early chapters introduce not only the natural environment but also Grenfell's first journeys, encounters with poverty and illness, and the logistical and social framework of fishing life, from methods of catching cod to the oppressive “truck system” of trade. This beginning positions the book as both a vivid travelogue and a testament to the perseverance and character of the people and those who seek to help them.