The Port of Tarragona Archive will host the presentation of the book 'Salvador Vidal Pons, "Tercio" (1897-1976). A Businessman from the Serrallo Neighborhood of Tarragona' next Thursday, October 22, at 7 p.m. The work recovers the figure of one of the most prominent businessmen in the recent history of Tarragona's maritime district. Historian Sofia Mata de la Cruz, the author, delves into the life of 'Tercio' from his beginnings to all his business activities. The volume, published within the Saturnino Bellido Collection, allows readers to trace some of the main historical episodes of the 20th century and how they impacted the daily life of the Port of Tarragona and the fishing district of Serrallo.
The work reconstructs the life and business trajectory of Salvador Vidal Pons, popularly known as "Tercio," based on careful research using archive documentation and oral sources. The study shows how, from humble beginnings, Vidal Pons became a prominent businessman who promoted various initiatives linked to the fishing sector, ice manufacturing, the canning industry, and real estate.
Beyond the personal biography, the book offers a privileged look at the economic and social transformation of Serrallo and the Port of Tarragona throughout the 20th century. Its pages cover pivotal episodes of contemporary history, from the effects of the phylloxera crisis to the consequences of the Civil War and post-war period, highlighting the entrepreneurial capacity of a generation that decisively contributed to the development of the maritime community.
The work, published in digital format within the Saturnino Bellido Collection (No. 15) of the Port de Tarragona Publications, is the result of one of the two works selected by the jury of the 10th edition of the Port Tarragona Research Award in 2024.
The book presentation will be led by the director of the Port Museum, Mercè Toldrà. It will feature the participation of the president of Port Tarragona, Santiago J. Castellà, and the author, Sofia Mata de la Cruz.
