Capstan Island is a small fishing community with a rocky coastline. It is not actually an island but got its name from a small tidal island off shore, where in 1851 the residents constructed a capstan, a sturdy wooden post and handle, mounted in a stabilizing frame, used to wind-in a rope or cable. The capstan pulled a line attached to the door of a seal net, or trap, that stretched to the mainland capturing seals on their spring migration.
Capstan Island has excellent garden soil. The region's only commercial greenhouse is located here.
The "battery", a formidable and very steep headland that has a history of frightful tales and a presence which gives a bad turn in winter's ice and snow, looms in contrast to the small community of Capstan Island.

One greenhouse, marine centre