Mevagissey Live Cam

History

The history of Mevagissey, a charming fishing village on the south coast of Cornwall, dates back to the early medieval period. It is thought that the name "Mevagissey" originates from the Cornish language, with "Mew" meaning a seagull and "Gissey" referring to the river or stream, a fitting tribute to the village's deep connection to the sea. Mevagissey’s development as a port can be traced to the 14th century, with the first known references to the village appearing in historical records in the early 1300s. However, it was during the 18th century that the village saw significant growth due to its booming fishing industry.

At the heart of Mevagissey’s prosperity lies its bustling harbour, a vital hub for the local fishing community. The village grew alongside the rise in demand for fish during the Industrial Revolution. Fishing, especially for herring, mackerel, and later pilchards, was the lifeblood of the town, with many local families depending on the sea for their livelihood. The town’s port soon became home to a large number of fishing boats and a thriving fish market, creating a lively atmosphere that persists in the village today.