Final answer:
Fishermen in the late nineteenth century were likely among the poorer members of their communities, as wealth was not evenly distributed, and industrialization and economic changes often marginalized traditional occupations like fishing.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the late nineteenth century, fishermen's economic status compared to others living around the lake can be deduced to be part of the poorer segments of the community. Based on historical contexts, many individuals outside the burgeoning middle class, such as rural farmers and the urban poor, did not enjoy the prosperity experienced by a few individuals and corporations. The fishing industry during this period faced various challenges, including potential overfishing and competition with industrial advancements and new economic systems.
Considering the information provided, it is likely that fishermen were among the poorer members of their communities and faced economic hardships due to the changing economic landscape, where wealth was no longer evenly distributed, and industrialization offered different opportunities, often not accessible to traditional occupations such as fishing.
Therefore, the most appropriate answer to the question is: B) Fishermen were among the poorest in the community.