8legs: Virginia oliver

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Maine’s ‘Lobster Lady’ who fished for nearly a century dies aged 105

Virginia Oliver, known as Maine's 'Lobster Lady,' lived almost a full century on the water, dying at 105 after a near-100-year fishing tenure.
Oliver began lobster trapping at age eight with her father and brother, a rare start for a woman in a male-dominated maritime world.
Her decades on the boat earned her the nickname 'Lobster Lady' as she helmed a family operation offshore with her son Max.
Governor Janet Mills lauded Oliver as enduring Maine maritime heritage and expressed hopes her memory inspires future generations of fishermen.
Ornamental details aside, Oliver remained committed: she loved being on the water and planned to keep lobstering as long as she could.
Her life illustrates how lobster evolved from a humble staple to a pricey delicacy over nearly a century of Maine fishing.
Oliver's long career situates her as a living piece of Maine maritime history, celebrated by local institutions and festivals.
The Guardian notes Oliver remained in the public eye through documentaries, media coverage, and even childrens books chronicling her life.
Public tributes highlighted Oliver's sass and spirit, with remarks describing her as cheerful, resilient, and always ready to be 'the boss' on deck.
The Guardian recap includes Oliver's 103-year fishing highlight, a fall at that age, and ongoing influence through family and public memory.

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