Attack on Bell Island

Listen to Bell Island, Newfoundland’s fascinating wartime history as a target of German U-boats. 

Interview by Nelle Oosterom

 — Posted November 16, 2014
Damage to the Scotia Pier caused by a torpedo fired by the German submarine U-518 on November 1942. Bell Island, Newfoundland, November 3 1942.
Credit: Lt Gerald M. Moses / Canada. Dept. of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-188854

Visitors to Bell Island are often surprised to learn that this small island in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, was one of the few places in North America to come under direct attack during the Second World War.

Bell Island harbour was a target of German U-boats in 1942. A total of four ore carriers went down and about 60 crew members were killed.

Bell Island Mine Museum manager Teresita McCarthy spoke to Nelle Oosterom of Canada’s History about the island’s fascinating wartime history.

Themes associated with this article

Related to Military & War

Operation Habbakuk: "Professor" Pyke's Secret Weapon

It was all so devilishly simple — huge ships made of ice would sink Hitler.

Article

Children of Conflict

Young Canadians worked, worried, and waited during the First World War.

Article

Battle of the Thames

The Battle of the Thames (October 1813) was a decisive American victory that brought Michigan and the Old Northwest back under American control. Episode 5 of the War of 1812 Video Field Guide.

Video

Airplane Nose Art

Decorations on a Second World War bomber recall Quebec’s contribution to the conflict.

Article