In 1610, the first fish curing plant in Newfoundland was established at Cupids, by the English colonist John Guy. The plant was designed to process the abundant cod caught in the waters of Conception Bay, using salting and drying techniques to preserve the fish for export. This enterprise marked the beginning of the permanent English presence in Newfoundland and the development of a shore-based fishing industry. The success of the Cupids plant led to the establishment of similar facilities along the Newfoundland coast.

The Cupids curing plant appears in the early accounts of Newfoundland settlement, including the writings of John Guy and Richard Whitbourne. The plant also features in the poetry and ballads of the period, which celebrate the industry of the English fishermen. The establishment of the plant is noted in the historical poems of the time, reflecting the growing importance of the Newfoundland fishery.