Martin Bogdanović – Pioneer of the American fishing industry

From little Biševo, an islet opposite Komiža, one man's path led all the way to the American Pacific coast. Martin Bogdanović, the son of a fishing village, arrived in San Pedro, on Terminal Island, where he founded a modest factory of fish products under the name "French Sardine Co.". That was the time when the "doors of ocean fishing" were opening. Dragić's tuner showed that it was possible to move further from the coast, but the fishermen faced a new challenge - how to preserve the catch on long journeys. It was at this point that Bogdanović brought a turning point. The Port of Los Angeles monograph states that he is considered the innovator who first used crushed ice to preserve fish on board. His idea appeared at the same time as the seine, a new fishing tool that allowed for a rich catch in the open sea. Ice and seine - two innovations - opened the way for large catches and long voyages. The factory that Bogdanović founded grew along with the demand. During World War II, when the world was crying out for canned food, his plant experienced a strong rise. From a small business, a factory became known worldwide under the name "StarKist Foods". Thus, a fisherman from Biševo, bringing with him the experience and perseverance of his region, became a pioneer of the American fishing industry. His story remains a testimony to how it was possible to reach the world's shores from the edge of the Adriatic - and enter history.