Women in Heritage: Naomi Burgess

Naomi Burgess was born in Turk’s Cove in 1851 to Thomas and Hanna Pippy. After her mother’s untimely death she had to raise her younger siblings.
She met Henry Burgess in Whiteway in the early 1870s, they married in 1872 and had six children.
Naomi was a mid-wife who delivered babies, including her own grandchildren, in Green’s Harbour, Whiteway and Cavendish.
In the winter of 1890, while pregnant, Naomi slipped, and broke her right arm. Unable to obtain medical attention until after the spring thaw, her arm became infected and was amputated.
After losing her arm, she continued to help with births by directing other midwives.
she also continued to turn fish on the flake, and mend socks. When anyone in the family became ill, Naomi was the expert in traditional healing methods.
In the earl, Naomi and Henry’s home caught fire while they were attending church. Unknown to anyone, Naomi entered the burning house trying to save new beds and clothes belonging to her children.
After the original home burned, the Burgess Registered Heritage Structure was built circa 1902. The current property includes the home as well as a fishing stage, stable, store, cellar, and sawmill.
In 1934, Naomi passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work.
To learn more bout the Burgess Property check out our website: heritagenl.ca/heritage-proper...