Welcome to the Tunaman’s Memorial, a poignant tribute to the rich and sometimes perilous history of San Diego’s tuna fishing industry. Situated on Shelter Island, this remarkable sculpture offers a breathtaking 180-degree view of downtown San Diego, the Naval Air Station North Island, and the open ocean—a fitting backdrop for a monument dedicated to the brave fishermen who once called this harbor their home.
The memorial, spearheaded by sea captain and historian Anthony Mascarenhas, stands as a testament to the thousands who contributed to making San Diego the ‘Tuna Capital of the World.’ A massive Pacific bluefin tuna, captured mid-leap, is the centerpiece of this sculpture, symbolizing both the triumphs and tribulations of the fishing industry. The inscription at the base reads: ‘Honoring those that built an industry and remembering those that departed this Harbor in the Sun and did not return,’ a solemn reminder of the risks these fishermen took.
The roots of this industry stretch back to the early 20th century when Portuguese and Italian immigrants settled in areas like Point Loma and Little Italy, bringing with them expertise in fishing and boat-building. By 1911, the Pacific Tuna Canning Company was established, marking the beginning of a booming industry that would see San Diego become home to multiple canneries and a large fishing fleet.
However, this prosperity came at a cost. The ocean’s unpredictability claimed many lives, which is why the Tunaman’s Memorial is not just a marker of industrial success but also a site of remembrance for those lost at sea. Anthony Mascarenhas, inspired by the famous ‘The Man at the Wheel’ statue in Gloucester, Massachusetts, envisioned this monument to honor the West Coast’s tuna fishermen with equal reverence.
The story of the Tunaman’s Memorial is one of community, perseverance, and respect for the sea—a story that continues to be told as visitors pause to reflect on the legacy of those who helped shape San Diego’s maritime history.
