The port was developed in the early 17th century to cater for Moresby 's coal trade .
The port was fell into decline after two generations of the Lowther family turned the hamlet of Whitehaven into a major port .
The port was developed in the early 17th century to cater for Moresby 's coal trade , but fell into decline after two generations of the Lowther family turned the hamlet of Whitehaven into a major port .