The History of Harbour Island Bahamas

The history of Harbour Island Bahamas is as vibrant as the pastel-painted New England-style buildings and colorful flowers that line its streets. Initially, the island was home to the Arawak, a tribe of the Lucayan Indians.

In the late 15th century, following Christopher Columbus’s discovery of the area, the entire tribe of Lucayans was wiped-out by the Spanish Conquistadors. For a century afterward, Harbour Island lay desolate.

In 1648, the Eleutheran Adventurers, a group of British Puritans led by Captain William Sayle, sought religious freedom on the island. Their life was fraught with challenges, and by 1657, Sayle had departed.

By 1720, the island’s population was a mere 175, but the establishment of Nassau’s first parliament in 1729, which included Harbour Island representatives, marked the start of democratic representation.

By 1768, the island’s population grew to about 350, engaging in Wrecking—salvaging distressed ships’ cargos—a practice that eventually stirred rumors of piracy. This era also saw the founding of St. John Anglican Episcopal Church.

By 1782, the population reached 500, and in the late 18th century, Governor John Murray (Lord Dunmore) played a significant role in developing Harbour Island, including the layout of Dunmore Town.

The late 19th century was a prosperous time for residents, focusing on agriculture and shipbuilding until the outbreak of WWI.

The 20th century marked a shift from farming to tourism, particularly after the introduction of flights to the island in the 1940s.

By 1973, the Bahamas gained independence, becoming a member of the Commonwealth.

Today, the population of Harbour Island Bahamas is estimated at just over 1,800 people.

There are approximately 250 hotel rooms and an exceptional selection of homes for rent, offering a prime vacation destination.