On Twillingate Island, in the community of Durrell is Bulgin’s Room, a fishing premises more than 120 years old.  Owned by Roy Bulgin the premises comprise a stage, flake, extensive wharves and cribbing.  Mr. Bulgin applied to the Fisheries Heritage Preservation Grant program in 2003 and work was completed by July of the following year.  Mr. Bulgin said of the program, “providing financial aid to help preserve old properties such as fishing rooms will help us maintain…our link to the past”

Due to the age of the structures, and the fact that major work had not been done since the 70s Mr. Bulgin was concerned that sea and ice would irreparably damage the structures. Bulgin’s Room underwent foundation repairs by removing rotted timbers and replacing them with new longers, beams and shores.  He moved the small stage to replace the wharf underneath, and replaced the stage afterwards.  A new ballast was rebuilt to support the wharf and minor repairs were done to the stage including the painting of both gable ends.

Bulgin’s Room has a picturesque quality that appeals to traveling artists and visitors.  The premises has been featured in print and on canvas as it represents the cultural beauty of Durrell.  Mr. Bulgin recognizes this beauty saying, “maintaining our link to the past keeps us in contact with our heritage and culture…it will help preserve Old Newfoundland for future Newfoundlanders.”