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Columbus
is alleged to have come to the Acklin islands looking for gold but the
only "treasure" he found was the jasmine-like fragrance in
the air. Acklins is rocky and steep. Crooked Island is
mainly comprised of tidal flats and deep creeks. Population
of the two is a very friendly 850+ and counting.
About 223 miles
southeast of Nassau are Acklins and Crooked Island. Together
they form an area of almost 200 square miles that hug the waters
of the Bight of Acklins. A narrow sea passage known as the
Crooked Island Passage serves as an important route for steam
ships traveling on a southern route -- mostly to Central and
South America.
American Loyalists
first settled here in 1783, bringing with them slaves and money
to start a short-lived cotton industry. At the turn of the 19th
century, around 50 island plantations were in existence and
hundreds of slaves worked the fields. As the Blight in the 1820s
destroyed most of the plantations, the islands soon became
uneconomical. Today, most of the natives’ income centres on
fishing and simple farming.
At the southern and
southeastern part of The Islands Of The Bahamas chain lies
Acklins Island. This lesser known island has many unusual rock
formations, beautiful beaches and varied plant and animal life.
The island is so quiet that you can hear the tropical breezes
blow. But solitude has its price. Visitors will find truly
memorable bonefishing, deep-sea fishing, sailing, scuba diving,
snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing, but they’ll be pretty much
on their own in their enjoyment. But if you love being
surrounded by tropical birds, rolling hills and a coastline with
hidden coves and tiny, colorful villages -- you may want to put
Acklins Island on your itinerary.
Crooked Island
(together with Long Cay) forms the northwest part of the atoll
system. Although this island is a relatively quiet location --
it has many attributes. For diving enthusiasts, there are many
coral and reef formations to enjoy. If fishing is your game,
deep creeks and tidal flats are filled with game fish that will
make for an exciting fishing adventure. In addition, there are
miles of beautiful and relaxing beaches.
Colonel Hill is the
capital of Crooked Island and the location for most of the
islands’ activity. Every Friday night you can dance at the Bloom
of The Valley Bar or simply enjoy your favorite island beverage
at The Tiger Bar -- the islands’ first drinking establishment.
Other towns include Cripple Hill, True Blue, French Wells and
Gun Point. Albert Town, now classified as a ghost town, is the
only village on Long Cay.
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