The Exuma Islands
The Exuma Islands, a collection of 365 tiny islands collected
under one name, which are part of the many islands that make up
the legendary vacation destination known as the Bahamas, offers
a prime example of what an out of the ordinary Bahamas vacation
can be. It shows off the very best of the Bahamas, that parts
that are often outshined by the glitter and gleam of its
luxurious casinos and tourist centers. The Exuma Islands have
history, culture, a deep regard for nature and a splash of
adventure.
Great Exuma Island is the largest of the Exuma Islands and the
location Exuma’s capital city, George Town. Great Exuma Island
is home to some of the island group’s most interesting
historical sights.
Patience House and the Shark Lady of the Exumas is an unusual
museum and shop located in the home of Gloria Patience. Past 80
years old, she once met the Queen of England, barefoot with
shell bead around her ankles. It’s easy to imagine that she
held her head just as high then, barefoot before the Queen, as
she does now. Rumored to have caught more than 1,500 sharks,
she is a formidable character, and presides over the amazing
items she has collected through the years with a regal bearing
quite her own. Her guided tours through her museum home provide
a wealth of historical information and she is a fascinating and
warm person.
Another historic site on Great Exuma Island is the Bowe Family
Plantation. Today, this former cotton plantation lies in ruins,
though in its remains, one can achieve a clear picture of the
structural arrangement of the house, including the kitchen and
the slave quarters.
Also on Great Exuma Island are two cemeteries of historical
importance. One is the Rolle Town Tombs. An overseer and his
wife, from the time of slavery, are buried here. There are a
couple of interesting bits of island history associated with
the surname Rolle. The name arrived on the island in 1783,
carried by the slaves that plantation owner Denys Rolle sent
from Florida for the cotton plantation he owned, but chose not
to reside at. Because slaves were known by the surname of their
master and after the Emancipation, many people kept the surnames
they’d grown accustomed to, the Rolle name now belongs to more
than half of the native population.
The other cemetery, called the Hermitage, dates back to the
1800’s. Located 8 miles away from the capital city of George
Town, using a guide will help to get the full effect of this
marvelous site.
The vast Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park expands over 176 miles.
This nature reserve is a fun and fascinating place, with fine
beaches and a wide variety of wildlife. It has also played an
important role in local nature conservation efforts.
The islands are wonderful for exploring underwater, with many
caves and reefs for snorkeling and diving and there are many
day tour packages available for these activities. Chartered
boats for fishing excursions are also available, and at
reasonable rates.
The Exuma Islands are an excellent vacation destination. This
area truly demonstrates the very best of Bahaman qualities.
Simon Harris
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