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.

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