August 27, 2026 — A new bronze statue along the Beaufort waterfront is helping preserve a key part of the town’s commercial fishing history.
The statue, named “Samuel,” was recently unveiled at John Newton Park.
It honors the thousands of Black menhaden fishermen who helped build Beaufort’s fishing industry and shape the community once known as “Fishtown.”
“Samuel is bringing a face to those individuals that have worked hard to contribute to Beaufort. More than just what they did on the water or in the processing plant, it helps you see them as people.”
After the Civil War, menhaden became a major part of the local economy.