According to local lore, the community of Hatchet Cove was probably first visited by Frenchmen. Winter settlers were probably the only people that lived in Hatchet Cove prior to 1880. Most of these people were from the Grate’s Cove area and would probably have come to the area for logging purposes. After 1880, families including Hiscocks, Parsons, Lockes, Hodders and Averys were documented as living in the community. Hatchet Cove Point, another area in the community, was inhabited by families of Janes and Puddicombs and was known as Puddicombe Head and Janes Beach., however this area is now called “The Head” and is uninhabited.

There are several legends of how the community got its name but many believe it was named after a Rev. Henry Hatcher, that had preached there in the late 1870’s. Oral tradition has recorded that the community was named Hatcher’s Cove and later changed to Hatchet Cove.

Logging and fishing were the main industries in early years. The first watermill that operated within the community was actually built in St. Jone’s Within by William Blundon and was brought to Hatchet Cove by boat. Later that winter Mr. Blundon used a horse, to bring the wheel over the ice. This mill was passed down to Mr. Blundon’s son John and stepson Eliab Robbins.

Fishing was also a big source of income for many of Hatchet Cove’s residents. Some residents owned their own fishing boats while others rented schooners from St. John’s merchants. These schooners were used for the Labrador fishery and to fish on the French shore. Some residents also went to the seal hunt.

In 1907 Hatchet Cove resident Eleazer Robbins discovered mineral deposits near Gap Pond. He opened a mine that only stayed in operation for two months because it was not economically feasible. It was reopened by Campbell and Cook but again only stayed in operation for six months due to financial problems.

Residents took advantage of the flat land to grow vegetables for their families and animals were raised to supply meat. Hunting and fishing also provided meat and fish for family use

The tiny community of Hatchet Cove is nestled around the waters of Southwest Arm. This community offers residents a quiet lifestyle with easy access to the open waters of Trinity Bay. Residents enjoy a trip to one of the area’s abandoned communities or sheltered coves for a picnic or family excursion. Residents can enjoy a walk along the countryside and beaches, enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Wildlife and seabirds are easily viewed throughout the area.

Students from the area are bussed to Clarenville to attend school. Residents work in nearby communities and also travel to Clarenville for medical, shopping and banking services. The close proximity to Clarenville is convenient for those who do not live in a bigger town but still want to avail of services provided by larger centers.