Episode 28: Stories of Storm and Sea

Folklorists would make good podcasters. They are used to finding interesting people and getting them to tell good stories. Take Nancy Solomon for example. As the executive director of Long Island Traditions, she has spent years collecting and studying the stories of baymen, offshore fishermen, boat builders and the like. Today we’ll talk to her about a number of those stories revolving around the subject of weather lore.

We discuss how generations of fishermen have scanned the skies and shores for signs of encroaching weather. You’ll hear of hurricanes opening (and closing) inlets along Fire Island, shark sightings, narrow escapes and the lasting impact of Superstorm Sandy.

Built up over years and passed down through generations, the weather lore of Long Island fishermen can tell us much about how things have changed and how to best work with nature.

And thanks to Debra Anwar Riad for adding her voice to our intro!

Further Research

• Long Island Traditions
• Long Island Traditions on YouTube
• Nancy Solomon interview (2007)
• “The ‘New Cut’ at Old Inlet”
• Hurricane Sandy (via the National Weather Service)
• Long Island Commercial Fishing Association
• The Folklore Society