Sarilhos Pequenos has been known historically as land of fishermen and fish-salters; until the 1960s-1970s, and for decades beforehand, 90% of its population was supported by the fishery from the ravines and rivers of the region.

Its name is derived from the conversion process used in transforming the saltwater into salt, using a wooden device or sarilho that would permit the entry of water into the salt-flats.

Unlike the process encountered in Sarilhos Grandes, the people of this parish used smaller devices, thereby achieving their fame and the toponymy for the area.

Although this work disappeared with modern techniques, much of this cultures legacy has remained in the brightly painted small residences and the fishing nets, now used to stop insects.

Historically, the 1º de Maio Futebol Clube Sarilhense, known for raising some important football players, was founded on 5 January 1918, by then first president Orlando Santos.