Abbey Light from Sunderland point. Sunderland Point can only be reached directly from Overton at low tide. This small village was, around 1710, an important part of the seafaring import trade linked closely with Lancaster. At Sunderland Point, cargoes from larger vessels were unloaded into small boats for transhipment up the River Lune to Lancaster. Once the quays in Lancaster and docks at Glasson Dock were developed through the 18th century Sunderland Point lost its significance as a harbour in its own right. All the same, skilled river pilots have traditionally lived and worked from this village. In the early days of sea trade Lancaster was closely linked to the triangular slave trade. Slaves were not sold here but, just occasionally, we know of their presence in the area. One such young man is buried at Sunderland Point, having died soon after being set ashore.