This video by Peter Santenello, titled "Inside Maine’s Lobsterman Culture", explores the deep-rooted, multi-generational traditions of lobster fishermen along the coast of Maine through the perspective of Eric Waterman, a sixth-generation waterman, and local residents.
Introduction to Maine’s Coast and Generational Roots
[00:51] Eric Waterman explains that his family has owned their property since the era of Winslow Waterman, who purchased it from on
e of Henry Knox’s war buddies.
[01:23] The video highlights how the region's deep historical ties are shifting. While multi-generational families have long inhabited the area, many younger descendants are leaving, and out-of-state buyers are purchasing local properties, sometimes building multi-million-dollar homes [01:56] next to traditional family land and old fish shacks.
Local Life and Community Characters
[03:00] Peter and Eric visit local landm
arks, including a tribute to a World War II submarine commander known as the "yellow submarine" railway [03:00], and discuss the local dynamics between longtime residents and newcomers.
[08:09] They visit Buzzy (Arnold), an 85-year-old high school dropout and lifelong fisherman who spent decades on the water [09:47] before having to step away to care for his late wife during her battle with cancer [10:36]. Buzzy reflects on the simplicity of the old
days, the changes in the community, and his ongoing care for the gardens his wife left behind [11:18].
Lobstering Industry and Practices
[14:37] Peter meets Eric's 21-year-old daughter, Abby, who is carrying on the family tradition by running her own lobster boat [19:50].
[15:20] The video visits a local fish market to examine the catch, detailing how lobsters are sorted, weighed in 90-pound crates [15:47], and prepared for transport to restaurants w
orldwide [16:32].
[22:21] Out on the water with Abby, the video demonstrates essential conservation practices, such as "notching" female lobsters [22:25] to protect breeding stock and throwing back undersized catches. Fishermen also rely on unwritten "gentleman's agreements" and landmarks to respect each other's territorial fishing lines [06:45].
Eban Island and Family Heritage
[25:32] Eric takes Peter out to Eban Island, which is co-owned by Eric an
d his sisters [27:06]. The island features a rustic workshop and a private "man cave" where Eric spends time away from the mainland.
[28:20] Eric shares the history of the surrounding islands (Eban and Tommy), named after the sons of Ebenezer Thorndike, who originally settled the area through his connection to Henry Knox [28:43].
Conclusion
[34:14] The journey includes a brief stop to speak with Nora McClennan, a tenth-generation [34:48] fisherman wo
rking alongside her family, highlighting both the camaraderie and the unpredictable nature of the catch from day to day [35:08].
[37:15] Back at his coastal camp, Eric reflects on his deep attachment to his land, his refusal to sell regardless of offers [37:40], and the importance of maintaining simplicity and mutual respect within the community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXm-ryV7oTQ
Inside Maine’s Lobsterman Culture
Peter Santenello · 316K vie
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