Map of Grand Bahama in 1926

In 1924 The Tribune Handbook: the standard guide to Nassau and the Bahama Islands, published this fascinating description of Grand Bahama more than a century ago.

According to the Handbook, Grand Bahama was not permanently settled until about 1806. In 1921, its population was only 1,695 – 731 males and 964 females. And did you know that by 1924 the island’s revenue was chiefly derived from the liquor trade?

The sponge industry was thriving, while the island also produced citrus fruit and what the Handbook described as “excellent onions”!

The principal settlements named were Eight Mile Rock, Carrion Crow Harbour, Golden Grove, Freetown, Water Cay and West End.

And of course, there was no Freeport yet!

Read the original description below.

Discover more about West End’s role in the 1920s rum-running trade.