Andrew Mercer's Blog

There is some part of me that knew there was a group of people (other than native Indians of course) that lived in this manner at some point time in Newfoundland, and now I’ve been enlightened a little bit about who they were!  Apparently, the Society of Masterless Men was begun around the year 1750 on Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula in and around Ferryland on the southern shore.  It was started by a deserter from the British Royal Navy named Peter Kerrivan who with his society of  men are said to have lived in the wilderness (lots of tuckamore!) surrounding the Butterpot Barrens for roughly 50 years.  They lived off the land and traded with the settlements, but it is said that some times they raided and stole.  However, they never stole from the poor or less wealthy, which is why they became known (probably due to legends) as akin to Robin Hood.  Very interesting – I would definitely love to read more about these guys.  Anyone know of any other books or resources that mention the Society of Masterless Men from Ferryland?

Andrew Mercer | andrew@andrewmercer.net