Bahamas History

Information Bahamas History: Historical Sites on Paradise Island - our divine oceanfront villas in the Bahamas are close to the historical sites, restaurants, the casino, fishing charter boats, shopping, and more. We know all the historical sites and can help you set up a tour. Join us for an incredible vacation to the Bahamas.

HISTORICAL SITES
- Bahamas Historical Society Museum: the museum traces the history of the Bahamas from Arawak Indian times (pre-Columbus) to present. Elizabeth & Shirley Streets near Parliament Square, Mon-Fri 10a-4p, Sat 10a-noon; 242/ 322-4231. * We recommend you start here.

- Parliament Square: The traditional center of the Government of the Bahamas is located in the heart of downtown Bay Street. As a former British colony The Bahamas continues the tradition of a parliamentary government composed of a Senate, House of Assembly, Prime Minister, Supreme Court and a Court of Appeals; the Changing of the Guard ceremony, held every two weeks, continues the British tradition; both are Downtown Nassau on Bay Street.

- Garden of Remembrance: Located in Parliament Square. Here you will find the Cenotaph, a monument commemorating the Bahamians who died in WWI and WWII.

- Nassau Public Library and Museum: Built in 1797, this octagonal building was formerly the Nassau Gaol (old world spelling for "jail"). Visitors have a look around at the small prison cells which are now lined with books, or examine a collection of historic prints, old colonial documents, or Arawak artifacts. Admission is free. Hours: 10a to 9p on weekdays, 10a to 5p on Saturdays.

- Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation @ Vendue House: was built sometime before 1796 and named for the slave, Pompey, who lived at Steventon on Exuma Island; functioned as a marketplace until the late 1800's; "Vendue" is French for sold. Unfortunately, enslaved people were among the commodities sold in a two-story building; the permanent exhibit is dedicated to the African experience in The Bahamas; see artifacts excavated from former plantations; museum also acquires objects of African origin; the good news is descendants of the Rolle slaves remain on the land today as owners of the former plantations; renown Bahamian artist, Amos Ferguson, features some of his best works here; wheelchair accessible and small gift counter; Mon-Fri 10a-4p; Sat; 10a-1p; Bay Street opposite George Street; 809/ 326-2566.

- St. Francis Xavier Cathedral: Dedicated in 1885 this is the oldest continuously operating catholic church in Nassau, Bahamas. Masses are still held here.

- St Matthew's Church: This beautiful Anglican Church located between Church Street & Lover's Lane was built in 1800's and is the oldest church building still standing in The Bahamas.

- Fort Fincastle & Water Tower: This site was built by Governor Lord Dunmore. See the spectacular view from the nearby 126-foot water tower and former lighthouse. Guided tours are conducted by a courtesy guide free of charge, but guides will accept a small gratuity. There is a 50 cents admission charge to the Water Tower.

- Queen's Staircase: this is Nassau's most visited attraction and has been recently renovated. Climb the 66 steps carved of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century. This 102-foot staircase was named in honor of the 66 years of Queen Victoria's reign; today a thick overcoat of trees surrounds the steps creating a cool area during the hottest days; next to the Water Tower.

- Fort Charlotte: was built in 1789 by Lord Dunmore and named in honor of the wife of King George III. This fort has never fired a shot in battle. It includes a waterless moat, drawbridge, ramparts and dungeons. Ft. Charlotte commands a fine view of Nassau Harbor. Admission is free. Ministry of Tourism trained tour guides dressed in period costume conduct guided tours Mon - Sun. Times: 8 a.m.. - 5 p.m.. Phone: (242) 325-9186.

- The Cloisters: Stroll about the remains of a 14th century French Monastery that was imported, stone by stone, to the United States by the newspaper baron William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s; 40 years later the Cloisters were bought by Huntington Hartford and installed at the top of a hill on Paradise Island overlooking Nassau Harbor. The Cloisters are a popular site for weddings. On Cloister Road Paradise Island.

Cabbage Beach