Jellybean Row: The Myths, Mysteries, and Legends Behind St. John’s Most Colourful Streets

In the heart of St. John’s, Newfoundland, a splash of colour defies the ruggedness of its coastal setting. Rows of brightly painted homes, famously known as Jellybean Row, line the narrow, winding streets of this old harbour city. More than just a visual delight, these houses are deeply woven into the city’s folklore, standing as monuments to the past and guardians of the mysteries that linger in St. John’s.

But where did these colours come from? The truth lies somewhere between practicality, tradition, and legend - each one adding a layer to the story that makes St. John’s one of the most enchanting places in North America. Let’s dig into the tales behind Jellybean Row and explore why these houses are more than just a pretty backdrop.

Legends in the Fog: Spotting Home from Sea

If you ask a local, they might tell you that Jellybean Row’s colours were born from necessity, rooted in the harsh maritime conditions that have shaped St. John’s. According to legend, early fishermen painted their homes in bright colours to cut through the thick coastal fog. When returning from long days on the Atlantic, they could spot the vivid blues, greens, and reds from afar, steering them back to safe harbour.

In St. John’s, fog can roll in as thick as pea soup, blanketing the city and the waters alike. Imagine yourself as a sailor, squinting through the mist, only to see a burst of orange or yellow emerging from the gloom. Home. It’s a comforting sight, a beacon of warmth, and a reminder that you’re close to safety. This beloved legend of colourful houses cutting through the fog still resonates with locals, even if it might be part myth.

The Tale of the Fisherman’s Wife

Beyond practical tales of fog and sailors, there’s another story—one with a touch of humour. This tale says the tradition began with a single fisherman’s wife, living in a small wooden house on a steep hill facing the harbour. Her husband, a fisherman with a habit of coming home late and occasionally wandering into the wrong house (or so he claimed), inspired her to paint their home a shocking shade of blue. That way, he’d have no excuse, and she’d know he could find his way home easily.

As the story goes, other women in the village took notice. They began painting their own houses in vivid colours to catch their husbands’ eyes, adding some friendly competition in the process. “If Margaret’s house is blue, ours’ll be the brightest green anyone’s ever seen!” Soon, a new tradition emerged, built on playful rivalry and a dash of practicality.

Superstition and Protection: Colours as Ward Against Bad Luck

Like many coastal towns, St. John’s has a deep-rooted tradition of superstition, especially among fishing communities. In the early days, fishermen believed certain colours held protective powers. Red was for luck, green for good fortune, and blue for calm seas. Over time, these colours found their way into houses as a kind of talisman against bad weather, dangerous voyages, and hard times.

Some say the tradition of brightly coloured homes actually stems from this old practice. When fog was thick or the sea seemed ominous, locals believed that a splash of red on their house could bring good luck and help them survive the storm. Even today, you’ll find some houses with vibrant red doors or blue accents - a quiet nod to the old superstitions that linger in a city shaped by the sea.

Resilience in Architecture: The 1970s Rebirth and Wooden Structures

Architecturally, the homes on Jellybean Row are classic examples of traditional Newfoundland housing. Originally built with locally sourced wood, these houses reflect the town’s maritime culture and adaptability. In the early days, wood was plentiful and easy to work with, making it the primary material for construction. Though wood might be less durable against Newfoundland’s fierce climate, locals found ways to maintain these homes, treating the wood and adding the bright paint to help seal and protect against the salt and damp air.

By the 1970s, St. John’s was in need of revitalization. The economy had taken a hit, and many historic homes in the downtown area had fallen into disrepair. Residents and community leaders decided to bring life back to the city’s oldest neighbourhoods by painting these homes in bright, eye-catching colours. Inspired by old legends and the resilience of their ancestors, they transformed the cityscape and gave Jellybean Row its signature charm. This renewal effort was a testament to the grit and creativity of St. John’s people, as well as a celebration of the city’s storied past.

Today, keeping up these wooden houses has become a cherished local tradition. Homeowners take pride in maintaining the vibrant colours and carefully preserving the architecture, which has become symbolic of both the old-world charm and the resilient spirit of St. John’s. These homes are more than just buildings; they are living history, linking each generation to the past.

Modern Myths and Local Traditions

Today, Jellybean Row is an integral part of St. John’s identity. But the colourful houses are more than just a tourist attraction—they’re a living tradition, kept alive by homeowners who choose colours that reflect their personalities, family history, or simply the spirit of fun. Each shade tells a story, whether it’s a nod to the past or a choice for the future.

Many locals have their own stories about why they picked a certain colour or how it connects to their family’s history. Some even say their choice was inspired by dreams, folklore, or advice from an old timer who swore that “blue keeps the seas calm” or “yellow wards off the rain.” 

In a place as storied as St. John’s, every colour has a meaning, even if it’s only known to the person who painted it.

A City Defined by Colour

Strolling down Jellybean Row today, it’s easy to see why these colourful homes have become a symbol of St. John’s. They’re a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the city’s unique maritime culture. Against a backdrop of fog and waves, these colours stand out as a testament to the people who built this city and the traditions they carry forward.

So, next time you’re in St. John’s and see those iconic hues, think of the fishermen finding their way home, the superstitions that kept families safe, and the resilience that brings new life to old traditions. In a world that’s often grey, Jellybean Row is a reminder that colour - like a good story - has the power to light up even the foggiest of days.