1612 - 1613 - Some colonists from Cupids (established in 1610) spend the winter trapping and cutting timber at Salmon Cove.

Mid 1700’s – Settlement in South River follows shortly after Port de Grave fishermen established gardens and winter-houses in the area. Some of the earliest family names include: Andrews, Bussey, Hussey, Morgan, Mugford and Richards.

1836 – Southern Gut has a population of 232.

1857 – A combined population of 520 is recorded for Salmon Cove and Southern Gut. The main religion is the Church of England.

1901 – South River has a population of 700 people. Most of the men are engaged in the Labrador fishery.

1920’s & 1930’s – The decline in the Labrador fishery causes a decline in the town’s population.

1966 – South River is incorporated and the towns population is 421. The major local sources of employment are farming and the fishery. As roads improve many residents of South River commuted to work in Carbonear and St. John’s.

1980’s – Growth in local services contribute to the number of commuters who have settled in South River.

1994 – Much of what was Springfield is now considered to be part of the nearby community of Makinsons. Family names in Springfield include: Byrne, Hearn, Mabin I and Walsh.