Times of the Islands Spring 2024

TIMES
SAMPLING THE SOUL OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS SPRING 2024 NO. 146
ON THE WAY BACK
The “Big South”
OF THE
ISLANDS
LIVE LIKE A LOCAL
New company, old roots

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contents
Departments
6 From the Editor
21 Getting to Know
HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam
By Davidson Edens Louis
24 Looking Back
The Early Years:
Sapodilla Bay/Taylor Bay/Chalk Sound
Development
By James Brown
69 About the Islands/TCI Map
73 Subscription Form
74 Classified Ads
Features
44 On the Way Back
South Caicos, Past and Present
By Dr. Carlton & Verona Mills
52 New Company, Old Roots
Island Mystique
By Rachel Craft
Green Pages
31 From Surf to Turf
Story & Photos By Bill Bigelow
36 Conservation and Resilience
The Darwin PLUS 129 Project
By Christopher May, Samuel Pike, Katie Medcalf,
B Naqqi Manco, Dodly Prosper, and Junel Blaise
40 Investment and Nature Working Together
Natural Capital Investment Plan
By Andy Tetlow
Astrolabe
59 A Property Puzzle — Part Two
The Controversial Ownership of Breezy Point
By Jeff Dodge
66 Run Aground
An Introduction to the Shipwrecks of the
Turks & Caicos Islands
By James Jenney
TIMES
OF THE
ISLANDS
SAMPLING THE SOUL OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS SPRING 2024 NO. 146
On the Cover
South Caicos was once a major exporter of salt harvested
from its extensive salinas. Remnants of the walls, sluices,
and windmills pay homage to the island’s rich history.
The rainbow in the background fortells a bright future
ahead for the “Big South.” (See article on page 44.)
Award-winning Master and Craftsman Photographer
James Roy of Paradise Photography (myparadisephoto.
com) created this vertical composition by assembling a
series of six images captured by a high-definition drone
which was a half a mile away from his position. This
image was possible because a drone is really a flying
camera, tripod, and gimbal which has opened up completely
new possibilities in fine art image making.
44
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4 www.timespub.tc

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Designed by: Developed by: Real Estate Sales by:

from the editor
MARTA MORTON—WWW.HARBOURCLUBVILLAS.COM
A Mourning Dove perches on a rocky Turks & Caicos shoreline. Symbolizing peace or love, some believe that doves provide comfort because
they help people remember their loved ones are watching over them.
What’s Next?
As I was looking for a photo to illustrate this page, I came across Marta Morton’s poignant picture of a Mourning
Dove. It symbolizes how I feel these days as I grieve the loss of my late father and uncle. I had poured much time,
energy, and love into trying to make the last of their nine decades on earth comfortable. Now that they are gone, I
feel bereft and alone, wondering how I will move forward in a future without my dear “mighty oaks.”
Born of immigrant parents during the Great Depression, they were frugal and careful and cautious. They lived
lightly, in small houses which they maintained themselves—inside and out. Their possessions lasted a lifetime. They
reused, recycled, repaired, rarely threw anything out. They savored time, exercised patience, let life unfold slowly.
Problems and situations weren’t expected to be “solved” in minutes or hours. They looked you in the eye when they
conversed—not texted. They considered subjects deeply, not in terse phrases or easily digestible bites. What they
had was “enough;” they were not always looking for “more.” We say that life has “progressed” due to technology,
ease, more wealth . . . but I wonder?
A small solace is the part of me that has learned and absorbed their values. Can I remind others that in this scary,
rushed, anxiety-driven world, we might do well to spend more time looking back?
Kathy Borsuk, Editor timespub@tciway.tc • (649) 431-4788
6 www.timespub.tc

Arc
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Managed by:
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For more information contact
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Joe Zahm at 649.231.6188
or email:nina@tcsothebysrealty.com
@livesouthbank
@livesouthbank
The Lissoni® trademark is owned by Piero Lissoni and any
use of such mark by South Bank and Arc is under license.

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The resort seamlessly blends a luxurious, intimate complex of six exclusive beachfront villas, 25 condominium units (including 2
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Grand Villa 7 Bedroom / 11 Bath 10,127 $15,141,600
Bougainvillea 5 Bedroom / 9 Bath 6,631 $9,831,900 2300422
UNIT # DETAILS SQUARE FOOTAGE PRICE MLS
2C 2 nd Floor – 1 Bedroom/1 Bath/ Half Bath 1,600 $1,280,000 2300531
2A 2 nd Floor – 1 Bedroom/1 Bath/ Half Bath 1,800 $1,440,000 2300584
2D 2 nd Floor – 2 Bedroom/2 Bath/ Half Bath 2,382 $2,620,200 2300585
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Member of
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UNIT # DETAILS SQUARE FOOTAGE PRICE
A408 Fourth Floor – One Bedroom / One Bath / Half Bath 1,782 $1,650,000
A414 Fourth Floor - Two Bedroom / Two Bath / Half Bath 2,229 $2,500,000
A506 Fifth Floor – Two Bedroom / Two Bath / Half Bath 1,959 $2,500,000
A512 Fifth Floor – One Bedroom / One Bath/ Half Bath 1,615 $1,700,000
A604 Sixth Floor - Three Bedroom / Three Bath / Half Bath 2,801 $3,400,000
FOR OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, CONTACT
Robert Greenwood | +1 649 432 7653
Walter Gardiner | +1 649 231 6461
EMAIL: andaz@tcibrokers.com
Member of
Prices Subject to Change

TIMES
OF THE
ISLANDS
MANAGING EDITOR
Kathy Borsuk
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Claire Parrish
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bill Bigelow, Junel Blaise, Kathy Borsuk, James Brown,
Rachel Craft, Jeff Dodge, James Jenney,
Davidson Edens Louis, B Naqqi Manco, Christopher May,
Katie Medcalf, Dr. Carlton Mills, Verona Mills,
Samuel Pike, Dodly Prosper, Andy Tetlow.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bill Bigelow, Chuck Bliley, James Brown,
Elemento Photography, Eve Englefield, Island Mystique,
Gary James—Provo Pictures, Kaieri Photography,
Agile LeVin, Marinas.com, Christopher May, Marta Morton,
Dodly Prosper, James Roy—Paradise Photography,
Sailrock Turks & Caicos, Shutterstock,
Turks & Caicos National Museum Collection,
Matt Smith, Matt Weedon.
CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS
Wavey Line Publishing.
PRINTING
PF Solutions, Miami, FL
Times of the Islands ISSN 1017-6853 is
published quarterly by Times Publications Ltd.
Copyright © 2024 by Times Publications Ltd. All rights reserved
under Universal and Pan American Copyright Conventions.
No part of this publication may be
reproduced without written permission.
Subscriptions $28/year; $32/year for
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Submissions We welcome submission of articles or photography, but
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event shall any writer or photographer subject this magazine to any
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subject to change without notice. The publisher accepts no
responsibility for such alterations or for typographical or other errors.
Business Office
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20 www.timespub.tc

getting to know
HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam is the Turks & Caicos Islands’ first female governor.
A Journey of Purpose
and Responsibility
Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam,
Governor of the Turks & Caicos Islands
By Davidson Edens Louis ~ Photos By Elemento Photography
I was eager to meet the country’s first female governor, not only because of her impressive track record
and swift achievements but also because I wanted to encounter the true, authentic self beyond her title.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 21

Kenneth Williams was a PRIDE technician who fabricated an “experimental”
fence for the fledgling conch farm out of Slinkies.
Writer Davidson Louis (at right) encapsulated his interview with TCI Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam in one word—“humility.”
Ms. Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam took up the role of governor
of the Turks & Caicos Islands in June 2023. Born in
Shropshire, UK and descendant of a line of lioness women
with strong family ties, Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam
stands as the first female to take on the role in the Turks
& Caicos. With roots in Sri Lanka, she exudes a stern yet
charismatic demeanor. As she sat next to me, relaxed
and composed, our open conversation was inspiring
and enlightening. She shared anecdotes and reflections,
offering insights into her personal background and professional
ethos, from childhood memories by the sea to
addressing complex issues like youth crime. Our discussion
delved into the essence of identity, purpose, and
resilience, revealing a life shaped by diverse experiences
and unwavering dedication.
Growing up in the West Midlands countryside, far from
the sea, Her Excellency fondly recalls childhood holidays
in Sri Lanka, where the beach and island lifestyle instilled
a sense of safety, joy, and calmness. No wonder she feels
at home here in the TCI. Repeated vacations in the tropics
as a child, surrounded by lots of cousins, have helped
refine her character. She grew up in a colorful family,
filled with debaters, steeped in love, care, and of course,
the occasional bragging rights. She found the perfect
balance between tradition and self-purpose, which lays
the groundwork for her affinity towards island living and
career. She is a simple soul, a cook, and a passionate
enthusiast for spicy food. She swims laps in the morning,
I assume only after she makes sure nothing has emerged
overnight across our Islands. She oozes self-control and
poise, and I do wonder how she does this so effortlessly.
When we dove into it, I couldn’t help but notice a
profound sense of self-fulfillment and genuine joy in
serving the public. Perhaps this is what motivates her to
persist and affect lasting changes. She spearheaded the
set-up of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, a significant undertaking
following the tragic fire in London that claimed
the lives of 72 individuals. This initiative provided compelling
reasons to persevere. It entailed driving purpose
by addressing bereavement and distress, facilitating a
22 www.timespub.tc

legal process, and fostering public trust. From her tenure
as governor in Anguilla to her current responsibilities,
she stresses the critical importance of safeguarding and
supporting communities, particularly during times of vulnerability.
Navigating challenges and complexities of leadership,
Her Excellency shares her approach to decision-making
amidst uncertainty and anxiety. Grounded in humility
and strategic thinking, she emphasizes the importance
of staying focused on preventing harm and earning trust
through responsible actions. “How do you bring yourself
to the core when you’re dealing with complex issues?”
I asked. “Always keep sight of your responsibility,” she
answered. “It’s not about plaudits. At its core, I think that
staying humble in that moment and staying calm is so
important. Avoid shooting from the hip and really allow
yourself to react not when on a whim but on a focused
analysis of the issue at hand.”
Having the responsibility to protect the country, Her
Excellency encourages young individuals to embrace
diverse opportunities and find their path authentically.
Rejecting the pressure to have life’s trajectory figured out
early, she advocates for exploring experiences that foster
resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness.
In addressing youth crime, Governor Daniel-
Selvaratnam highlights the allure of gang life for
vulnerable individuals seeking identity and status. She
emphasizes the importance of preventive measures,
community engagement, and providing support to
at-risk youth to steer them away from criminal pathways.
Starting with education, Her Excellency emphasizes the
need for curricula that prioritize self-awareness and critical
thinking. She underscores the role of mentorship,
community support, and holistic approaches in nurturing
confident and empowered youth. A heartfelt thanks goes
out to all of the local establishments and persons who are
dedicated to tackling the root cause of the issues, including
the Edward Gartland Youth Centre, the Felix Morley
Community Centre, and the ongoing initiatives from TCI
Minister of Education Rachel Taylor
I pondered how to encapsulate the interaction in
a single word. Without hesitation, “humility” came to
mind. Her Excellency’s insights serve as a testament to
the power of purpose-driven leadership, compassionate
decision-making, and embracing one’s unique journey.
Through her words, she inspires a deeper reflection on
identity and the pursuit of self-purpose. To all girls who
need inspiration, Her Excellency Dileeni serves as a testimony
that hard work and commitment go a long way. a
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 23

looking back
KAIERI PHOTOGRAPHY—COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Opposite page: Chalk Sound was, and remains, one of the most scenic places on Providenciales. It is a protected national park and includes
a connection to the open ocean. Today, it is home to some of the most picturesque estates on the island.
Above: Taylor Bay and its shallow, calm waters and beautiful beach is among the quieter of the beaches in the area.
The Early Years
Sapodilla Bay/Taylor Bay/Chalk Sound development.
Story & Historical Photos By James (Jim) Brown
I am from Canada where it is COLD during the winters, so in 1974 there was a very popular movement to
align with or even have the Turks & Caicos Islands join Canada. It was an idea that appealed to everyone
in Canada and was a nightly news story on TV and in newspapers!
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 25

I was curious and visited South Caicos, where the
flight from Miami landed at the time, and then went on
to the capital Grand Turk to see what it was all about.
At the time I was a developer/builder so a project in
warmer climes could be of interest. During that visit I
met up with government officials, planners, and a local
landowner from Middle Caicos. I purchased my first property
in Belle Sound on South Caicos and came away with
an idea to build a dive resort on Middle Caicos. On my
next visit I had my architect along. We presented and
had approved by the United Nations planner responsible
for the TCI, a plan for 800 acres on Middle Caicos to be
named “King Conch’s Place.” Over the next two years our
lawyer Finbar Dempsey in Grand Turk tried his best but
because of legal titles and family land, the title could not
be transferred so the project didn’t happen.
The newly constituted TCI Government of 1976
was on a mission to attract developer/investors. I was
invited to return because of the serious intentions and
proper planning I had demonstrated in Middle Caicos to
participate. Liam McGuire as the development minister
offered my group five acres on Grace Bay if we would
build a 25-room hotel. In 1978 I returned with some
potential investors and had a closer look. Providenciales
was empty —there were only a few tourist homes and a
marina. There were 17 cars and 950 people there at this
time. Two small inns around Turtle Cove, the Third Turtle
and Erebus, were the only accommodation. A small dirt
strip served as the airport and a dock out the southwest
side at Gussy Cove was all the infrastructure. There was a
group of homeowners clustered around Turtle Cove and
Thompson Cove that supported an electric generator for
their power—PPC (Provo Power Co-op). Islanders lived in
three villages—Blue Hills, Five Cays, and The Bight. Water
was collected from roofs draining into concrete tanks
called cisterns. Food was collected from the sea and by
trading with other islands like North Caicos and Haiti.
Grace Bay was amazing in such a pristine state but
I was not a hotel builder/operator so the idea was not
something I felt confident about. After all, there were
not really any tourists about and no proper airport.
Fortunately, a local taxi driver, Hearts Capron, took us
on an island tour. One stop was at Sapodilla Beach where
local fishermen landed their boats. Looking around this
area I felt much more confident that this is where I could
do a development in scale with my experience. At this
time in history there was a simple dirt track to Sapodilla
Bay and the adjacent Gussy Cove Harbour. There were no
power or phone lines and just empty vacant land as far as
you could see.
This was the road from South Dock into town on Providenciales in the early 1970s.
26 www.timespub.tc

However, Sapodilla Bay was attractive to passing
boaters as it was a calm anchorage. In fact there were
signs of such visits over some 200+ years! The rock carvings
on top of Sapodilla Hill were probably from sailors
stranded due to shipwreck or passing time as the sailing
ships were keeled over for bottom cleaning and repairs.
There were some plantations on Providenciales from the
late 1700s which required provisions. Sapodilla Bay was
where the boats came in and long boats were used to
row around the coast to the island’s backside, as did the
marauding pirates who visited on occasion. For example,
at the Cheshire Hall Plantation in central Providenciales
there are cannon placements facing the shallow waters
of the Caicos Banks. Boats could not get in on the north
shore along Grace Bay because of the reef protection
along the north side.
The local people were anxious to see investment and
hoped they could be part of future development. The fact
is, to do development on this scale requires some serious
money and contacts to make it happen. This is a problem
anywhere when things are starting up. At the time,
Islanders just didn’t have the contacts or the funds to
develop the country on their own.
My group formed a company called Condor Real
Estate Ltd. and as president, I was now set to negotiate
with government the purchase of 100 acres from “Gussy
Cove” (now called South Dock) to halfway down Taylor
Bay along the peninsula, with waterfront on both sides. If
I could reach a workable agreement with the government
ministers, then I could pursue investment partners.
It took several months of meetings and working with
my planners to create a master plan that was acceptable
to all parties. In the end the TCI Government wanted to
encourage tourism, so required us to build a 25-room
hotel at Sapodilla Point plus bring electricity from town,
lay a road through to Taylor Bay, and survey the proposed
subdivision. For doing this in a timely manner Condor
was granted the right to lease/purchase 100 acres.
It was a struggle right to the last minute! After weeks
of fruitless meetings, several ministers finally met with
me in Chief Minister Jags McCartney’s office to review
all the conditions. I told them I was leaving on the afternoon
flight and I had to have an agreement or there was
no point in my coming back. Finally, we all signed “The
Heads Of Agreement” document. Ahh! But wait— the
governor had to sign too! Off to his home and office at
Waterloo House to see Governor Strong with documents
in hand. He called me into his office and explained he
needed to read these before signing, although I pointed
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Times of the Islands Spring 2024 27

GARY JAMES—PROVO PICTURES—COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Much has changed over the last 60 years. Top: This is the Sapodilla Beach Jim Brown encountered in the 1970s.
Bottom: This aerial view shows Sapodilla Beach as the area looks today.
28 www.timespub.tc

out that the afternoon flight was at the airport preparing
to leave. So I left his office with nothing. I was sitting on
the plane and the stair was pulled back when a car drove
up beside the plane. They put the stairs back. The governor
walked down the aisle of the plane and handed me
the signed documents. We were in business finally!
One investor we brought in was Armin Theil who
was interested in the hotel operation. Over a three year
period, he built the 25-room Mariner Hotel. After several
hurricanes, the ruins can still be found on Sapodilla Point
above South Dock. Armin was also a baker and started the
first commercial bakery at the hotel—Sunshine Bakery.
It was very difficult to build in the Islands in those
days. There was no ready-mix concrete so Armin had an
older lady in Five Cays prepare gravel rock by breaking
larger rocks with her hammer. Whenever she had two or
three barrels full, Armin would pick them up and bring
them to the site. Water came from an old deserted home
cistern behind the dock area where it was dipped by
throwing a pail tied to a rope down into the cistern a certain
way and filling barrels on his truck. Sand came from
local beaches after it had been “rain washed” to clean
out the salt. Once enough material was collected—maybe
every two weeks—there would be a concrete pour. Mixing
the cement, rock, sand, and water in a gas powered mixer
on a good day might produce five yards. Nowadays a
concrete truck delivers twice that every hour! Further,
there were no concrete pumps so all concrete was moved
around with a wheelbarrow; second floors required buckets
carried up ladders. It was a long, tedious job but that
was the only way it could be done here then. There were
several local men like Bill Parker who were exceptional
carpenters and masons who helped make this happen.
During construction Armin lived in an old house out
by the dock that had no power or water. On occasion I
stayed with him. We had two forks and shared one knife.
He cooked on a small gas burner his famous “chicken in a
pail.” In the morning this was a frozen chicken, a handful
of carrots and potatoes, and water boiled for a few hours
in a pail! It worked well as long as Armin didn’t forget to
remove the plastic wrap on the chicken first! The fridge
was electric run by a generator we shut off at nights to
sleep, and started up again in the morning. The generator
shut off midday when it ran out of gas but kept us in cold
beer.
During a visit back to Canada Armin had his first
guests. The hotel was a shell with a roof but no windows
or doors. Somehow a planned invasion of Cuba went
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 29

wrong and 40 armed Cubans crashed onto the shores
of Providenciales. The government, not having facilities,
decided to house them at the Mariner Hotel. They
couldn’t do much damage—a few cooking fires in the
rooms was about it. They left many used life jackets as
payment.
Over the early years of the 1980s, sales of building
lots happened. This was helped along by the announcement
that the British Government and Club Med had
reached an agreement whereby the Brits would build an
international airport and Club Med a hotel. At the time
Club Med was the 11th largest hotel operator in the world.
British construction firm Johnson International started on
the airport and a year later the hotel. It was amazing they
pulled this all off considering that everything had to be
brought in by boats, even crushed rock from Scotland,
concrete plants, heavy equipment, and skilled workers
needing housing.
Provident Ltd. was the big developer on Providenciales
with a land grant of 4,000 acres back in 1966. During my
time the head man was Dick DuPont and he was key along
with others in getting Club Med interested. Provident sold
them some 35 acres of prime oceanfront on Grace Bay
for probably a good price. It was the catalyst that got this
island moving. With an airport, the future was looking
very positive.
Provident had a vision that Providenciales would be
a hideaway for the rich and famous where whatever happened
here stayed here! The Third Turtle Hotel was just
a dozen rooms, but some wild times took place. Dick
DuPont and several of his employees and partners had
myself and my planners in for a meeting one day. Their
vision was stressed and we were expected to get on-board
with it. High-end tourism, no gambling or casinos, simple
low-rise developments, and slowly this place took off in
that direction. The bar area at the Third Turtle was decorated
with neck ties cut from the throats of overdressed
visitors!
It wasn’t hard to keep what happened here private. It
was decades before Internet and to make a simple phone
call was quite time consuming. For example, I would go
to the Third Turtle and they had a phone—one of three
on island. One would phone the Cable and Wireless office
in Grand Turk to book a call out. Then go to the bar
and after several drinks, you might get a call back and
connect to your party. I think after the drinks everyone
assumed we were all a bunch of island misfits. However,
good times were had by all in the “good old days.”
Out at Sapodilla Bay we were selling large building
The beach at Sapodilla Bay was pristine and untouched in the 1980s.
lots about one acre in size. Several homes were built along
the coast towards Taylor Bay. An island enthusiast by the
name of Henry Moog from Atlanta became our biggest
fan. He bought many parcels and started building what
he called “Georgia Swamp homes” along Chalk Sound,
then Ocean Point. These were large wooden homes all
coloured grey with large post-and-beam treatments. Two
local contractors, Princy Harris and Willard Williams, were
kept busy for many years. The homes, in both location
and style, were a big hit and over the next 10 years Henry
sold out all he could build.
In the mid-1990s, styles changed and concrete
homes were required under the new hurricane building
code. You can see the difference in the Sunset Bay subdivision
compared to the older homes along Ocean Point
Drive. By 2000, Condor had sold out and ceased operations.
Now, re-development is happening and some of the
older homes are finding new life or are being replaced as
the Sapodilla Bay area is without doubt among the very
best locations for a home on Providenciales.
It was an amazing experience to be—along with many
local and international believers—part of nurturing this
country and Providenciales in particular, from a small and
quiet pristine group of Islands to what you see today! At
the beginning: No roads, no airport, no dock, no electricity,
so no TV or refrigerators, but the ever-present
beautiful sun, sea, and sand. This “Beautiful by Nature”
attraction and the foresight and effort of many created
this paradise that is enjoyed by so many today. a
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green pages
Newsletter of the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources
Head office: Church Folly, Grand Turk, tel 649 946 2801 • fax 649 946 1895
• Astwood Street, South Caicos, tel 649 946 3306 • fax 946 3710
• National Environmental Centre, Lower Bight Road, Providenciales
Parks Division, tel 649 941 5122 • fax 649 946 4793
Fisheries Division, tel 649 946 4017 • fax 649 946 4793
email environment@gov.tc or dema.tci@gmail.com • web https://www.gov.tc/decr/
A blue land crab (Cardisoma guanhumi) rests in a pool of water along the rocky shore.
From Surf to Turf
Connections between marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
Story & Photos By Bill Bigelow, The School for Field Studies,
Center for Marine Resource Studies, South Caicos, Turks & Caicos Islands
At The School for Field Studies’ (SFS) Center for Marine Resource Studies, I start my research course by
posing a seemingly simple question to students: “What is a land crab?” Typically, a confident hand will
shoot up from the front row and proclaim, “A crab that lives on land!” While this is a perfectly accurate
response, it turns out that a more precise answer is infinitely more complicated.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
Land crabs are decapod crustaceans and “true crabs,”
having the characteristic we generally consider to be, well,
crab-like: Two intimidating pincers, four pairs of jointed
walking legs, and a fused cephalothorax encased in a
hard calcified exoskeleton. Land crabs differ from other
terrestrial crustaceans like hermit crabs, which carry the
shells of marine snails for protection, and have adapted
to live their adult lives almost entirely independent from
the sea.
Land crabs evolved from ocean dwelling crabs some
125 million years ago during the Cretaceous period,
when dinosaurs roamed the earth. They retain much of
the same anatomy as their marine ancestors (gills, lunglike
spaces, and hard exoskeletons) and require moisture
and a particular mixture of ions for basic life functions
such as respiration and metabolism. Whereas marine species
of crab can meet these requirements by simply living
in seawater, life on land poses a significant and constant
challenge of maintaining hydration and ion balance.
In the Turks & Caicos Islands, the blue land crab
(Cardisoma guanhumi) is the most prevalent land crab
species, due largely to the low elevations and abundant
mangrove and coastal scrubland habitats of our islands,
which this species prizes. Blue land crabs require regular
immersion in water to maintain their water balance, be it
fresh or brackish. Within these coastal habitats the crabs
are prolific burrowers, excavating subterranean tunnels
which can reach a depth of four meters.
For much of the year, the crabs remain in a state
of reduced activity, sheltering within the confines of
their burrows which provide protection from temperature
extremes and predation. Typically, the burrows of
blue land crabs reach the water table and terminate in a
water filled chamber which allows them to maintain their
body moisture, even during the peak of the dry season.
These crabs will go one step further and seal off their
burrows during drought periods to lock in the moisture
and humidity of the burrow. Their proclivity to burrow
Active blue land crab burrows were excavated in mucky substrates along the border of saline ponds. The crabs typically burrow beneath the
protective cover of dense vegetation to better shelter from temperature extremes and predation.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
has earned them the title of “ecosystem engineers” since
they actively shape their environments, thereby providing
further habitat for other organisms.
During the rainy season when moisture is abundant,
land crabs emerge from their burrows and engage in an
annual spawning migration to their ancestral home, the
sea. Egg-bearing females release their clutch into the salt
water, where they hatch and are set adrift in the open
ocean, progressing through several larval stages for
nearly a month before returning to land. Coastal habitats
such as mangroves then play a critical role in the successful
recruitment of larvae back to land as their soft,
damp substrates and vegetative cover provide protection
for the returning baby crabs. As the crabs develop from
juvenile to adult, they migrate further inland to higher
elevations where they construct their burrows and can
live up to 13 years old.
Understanding this nuanced interplay between
terrestrial and marine life phases is important when considering
future policy decisions. In an era of heightened
urbanization and coastline development, the importance
of coastal ecosystems can be easily overlooked compared
to the more immediate economic returns from development.
In the Turks & Caicos Islands, one must consider
terrestrial and marine ecosystems as parts of an interconnected
web of biotic and abiotic factors rather than two
separate entities. Land crabs are a prime example of the
connection of land and sea ecosystems working in concert
to provide the necessary conditions for organisms
with complex life histories.
I’d be willing to wager that some of you reading this
article thought about classic TCI dishes such as crab ’n’
dough, stuffed crab, or crab ’n’ rice. In the Caribbean,
the harvest of land crabs is a practice which dates as far
back as the indigenous Taíno and Lucayan peoples of
the archipelago. The harvest continues today where the
crabs serve as an important source of protein, and act as
a large economic resource within small island communities.
Donning a bucket and flashlight, crab hunters scour
the bush and adjacent roadways listening for rustling
leaves as the crabs move about their nighttime world.
A blue crab evades capture by retreating into a burrow. Once inside,
they’ll either descend beyond one’s ability to reach them or extend
their legs against the burrow walls to wedge themselves in place.
When you hear them scuttling, there’s no time for hesitation
because these critters are fast! In the blink of an eye,
they can race back to their burrows where only the most
seasoned (and brave) hunter would venture to try and
get them out by reaching their hand into the burrow. On
a good night, harvesters report catching multiple dozens
of crabs which are either kept for personal consumption
or sold live to hungry crab connoisseurs.
Despite their cultural, economic, and ecological
importance, there is a critical lack of data surrounding
the crabs and their harvest in the TCI. To combat this,
students at SFS are leading an initial effort to document
the population size of the crabs on South Caicos. Unlike
other islands in the archipelago such as Middle and North
Caicos, South Caicos is markedly drier with vastly different
vegetation and is thus more limited in its capacity for
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
Seasonal brackish ponds on South Caicos serve as oases for the land crabs, birds, and amphibians on an otherwise arid island.
SFS students and staff work under the light of head torches to record
body measurements of the crabs. Pictured center, a smaller crab
displays the blue color pattern which has earned this species its
common name.
harboring the crabs.
Despite this, the land crabs persist, and in certain
areas, at remarkable densities. Along South Caicos’ eastern
shoreline runs a pronounced limestone ridge, at the
base of which lies some of the most pronounced vegetation
on-island. Along this ridge, seasonal rains produce
brackish ponds and it’s here that the land crabs thrive.
During nighttime surveys, students race to catch the
crabs. When successful, they record the physical characteristics
of the animals (size, weight, and sex) before
returning them to the bush.
These data represent a preliminary effort to understand
the habitats required to sustain populations of
blue land crabs on South Caicos and to frame future
studies investigating the interconnected nature of the
crabs’ terrestrial and marine ecosystems. For example,
given what we know of the crab’s life cycle, the release
of their eggs undoubtably contributes large amounts of
land-derived nutrients into the waters surrounding South
Caicos. This transfer of energy from terrestrial to marine
environments likely plays an important role in the marine
food web, nourishing everything from corals to bonefish.
However, the exact impact the crabs have is currently
unknown, as this ecological relationship has yet to be
explored on South Caicos.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
On a changing planet, small island states like the TCI
are disproportionately affected by the issues of climate
change and food security. As we strive towards a more
sustainable food future, the answers to our problems
may lie in localized small-scale fisheries like that of land
crabs. Just as the crabs were harvested by the indigenous
peoples of the Caribbean, so too may the sustainable
harvest of crabs continue to provide a reliable source of
protein throughout the region today.
For this to happen however, we must fully understand
their life cycles and how their survival is dependent
on the preservation of coastal ecosystems. These crabs
will continue to crawl on land as they have for millions of
years as long as we preserve the habitats critical for them
to survive and thrive. a
For detailed article references or more information
about The School for Field Studies, contact Director Heidi
Hertler on South Caicos at hhertler@fieldstudies.org or
visit www.fieldstudies.org.
This large, blue land crab is in the queue for measurement. Captured
crabs have morphometric data recorded then are promptly released
at their site of capture.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 35

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
DODLY PROSPER
The West Indian Whistling Duck is one of many migratory species that travel great distances to the isolated shelter of the TCI’s RAMSAR
site’s wetlands.
Conservation and Resilience
The Darwin PLUS 129 Project focuses on TCI wetlands.
By Christopher May, Samuel Pike, Katie Medcalf, B Naqqi Manco, Dodly Prosper, and Junel Blaise
As development steadily progresses throughout the Turks & Caicos Islands, it remains crucial to conserve
and protect the areas that make the country “Beautiful by Nature.” The North, Middle and East Caicos
wetlands are of international importance, containing a variety of marine and coastal habitat types and
complex natural transitions. Noteworthy are mangrove swamps, diverse bird life, numerous Arawak
sites, and several inlet cays. The whole area is a particularly good example of coastal wetland habitat
in the Caribbean, providing shelter and nursery locations for various species of waterfowl, turtles, and
commercial fish species.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
This drone shot illustrates another iconic species that utilizes the RAMSAR site—the West Indian Flamingo.
CHRISTOPHER MAY
The Darwin Plus Project 129, entitled “Understanding
Ramsar Wetland Dynamics for Marine Conservation
and Environmental Resilience,” is funded by the UK
Government under the Darwin Initiative, and aims to furnish
evidence showcasing the value of the Caicos Islands’
wetlands. It considers how these ecosystems contribute to
biodiversity, coastal protection, and natural capital, while
also evaluating the potential impact of future climates
on the wetlands. Led by Environment Systems Limited
(ESL) in the UK, this project uses satellite imagery indices
which are being developed to help establish a monitoring
framework and build capacity amongst technical and
scientific staff of the Department of Environment and
Coastal Resources (DECR).
The Turks & Caicos Islands’ wetlands in the Ramsar
Site constitute a rich tapestry of habitats, including coral
reefs, seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, salinas, blue
holes, and pine forests, spanning over 58,000 hectares.
The ecosystems form a series of interconnected and interdependent
networks which support biodiversity, carbon
storage, and hydrodynamics within the North, Middle,
and East Caicos Nature Reserve. The environments often
border one another and form intricate connections, especially
with regards to water movement and retention.
Many migratory species such as the Green Sea
Turtle (Chelonia mydas), the West Indian Whistling Duck
(Dendrocygna arborea), and the West Indian Flamingo
(Phoenicopterus ruber) traverse great distances to the isolated
and sheltered wetlands of the RAMSAR site, which
they heavily depend on for nesting and shelter. Five of
the eight endemic species of plants within the Turks &
Caicos, such as Caroline’s Rock Pink (Stenandrium carolinae),
Bahama Broombush (Evolvulus bahamensis),
and Bahama Hatpin Sedge (Eleocharis bahamensis) are
confirmed to have been found within the RAMSAR site’s
borders.
In addition to their biological and ecological significances,
these wetlands and other ecosystems are culturally
important, with local communities benefiting from both
an aesthetic standpoint as well as a gain of resources.
One such cultural event is the annual “Crabbin’” season,
which sees locals and visitors take part in the excited
gathering of Blue Land Crabs (Cardisoma guanhumi) as
the crabs emerge from their burrows at the start of the
rainy season. Iconographic flora such as the Turk’s Head
Cactus (Melocactus intortus), Caicos Pine (Pinus caribaea
var. bahamensis) give the Islands’ hillsides and low-land
forests their respective significant identities. The national
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 37

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
bird, the Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) can often
be seen flying, fishing, and nesting along Middle Caicos.
The beautiful and natural landscapes of the TCI RAMSAR
site provide a plethora of functions and benefits to the
country and its residents, through means of storm mitigation,
agriculture, recreation, and research.
ESL and the DECR have partnered together over
the last two years to conduct steady research into the
RAMSAR site and evaluate threats to the ecological functioning
of the nature reserve, both via anthropogenic and
climatic influences. Due to low elevation of the islands,
sea level rise and saltwater intrusion pose imminent dangers,
particularly for coastal areas, allowing more saline
water to permeate the internal sections of the land and
affect ground water. The vulnerability of these wetlands
to changes in rainfall patterns and increased drought
durations amplifies the risk, leading to dry conditions in
salinas that impact migratory birds’ breeding and feeding
grounds. Increases in average annual temperature
and UV indices (a consequence of climate change), present
an additional threat, influencing the growth cycles
and amounts of crucial wetland species. Migration and
spawning cycles, as well as seed and fruit production and
dispersal are increasingly vulnerable to these changing
environmental conditions.
Unfettered and ill-planned construction can lead to
deforestation, forests and waterways being fragmented,
and compacting of soils. It is in these vulnerable and
exposed areas that invasive species such as Cow Bush
(Leucaena leucocephala) and Australian Pine Trees
(Casuarina equisetifolia) can quickly spread and outcompete
native species and ultimately change soil chemistry.
Increasing development, including residential and commercial
construction, brings about localised pollution,
threatens ground-nesting birds, sea turtles, and iguanas,
and intensifies unregulated activities such as fishing,
poaching, and charcoal burning—all of which contribute
to the degradation of these vital wetland habitats.
To map an area of over 580 km 2 which is largely
inaccessible, technology is a huge enabler. Satellite imagery
was used to identify key features and functions by
designing several indicators which will help monitor the
wetlands in the future, highlighting potential issues in
near real time.
A habitat map for the TCI was previously created
by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) as
part of an earlier project, utilizing AI generated random
forest models using Sentinel 2 and optical imagery. The
accuracy of the map is good but understandably not perfect.
However, it forms an excellent baseline which can
CHRISTOPHER MAY
Here, the DECR’s North Caicos staff members examine the mangroves, another important wetland species. They provide natural infrastructure
to help reduce erosion and absorb storm surge impacts, while their dense roots help bind and build soils.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
This is a natural flood plain on East Caicos, another important part of the ecological system. It serves to filter and store water, secure natural
flood protection and help sustain biological diversity.
be updated with field work. This project has allowed for
ground truthing and a more accurate description of some
areas, particularly around the coast of East Caicos. To
understand more of the surrounding areas, the field team
used an aerial drone to visualise areas in the vicinity of
the survey points.
The project actively contributes to capacity building
by enhancing the technical capabilities of the DECR
staff and engaging local students in the fascinating complexity
of the wetlands and the species they support.
Through strategic outreach efforts, the project has built
up the knowledge of the importance of the wetlands to
both Islanders and visitors. This engagement instils a
deeper understanding of
the wetlands’ ecological
significance, fostering a
sense of shared responsibility
for their
preservation. By helping
residents
understand
the broader significance
of the RAMSAR site, we
cultivate a sense of stewardship
and collaboration,
reinforcing the importance
of collective efforts
in the preservation of these ecologically vital wetlands. a
Above: This image shows the TCI RAMSAR site border. These are the
attendees at a recent workshop for the Darwin PLUS 129 Project.
CHRISTOPHER MAY
DODLY PROSPER
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 39

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
The precious pine forests of North Caicos are not only a testament to environmental resilience, but an example of how natural capital value
includes the mental health that eco-systems provide to humans.
Investment and Nature
Working Together
New Natural Capital Investment Plan to launch this summer.
By Andy Tetlow, International Biodiversity Officer, Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC)
The environmental landscape of the Turks & Caicos Islands plays a vital role in the country’s tourism-focused
economy, providing “ecosystem services” that have a significant impact on communities across TCI.
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green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
What are ecosystem services, you may ask? This term
describes all the direct and indirect benefits that nature
provides for humans. For example, healthy mangrove
forests provide flood protection to coastal communities.
This is a particularly important ecosystem service in a
time of increasingly challenging weather patterns.
These ecosystem services are provided by what is
called “natural capital.” Natural capital includes all the
elements of nature, both living (plants, animals, etc.) and
non-living (bodies of water, minerals, etc.). Each of these
elements has a value—whether it is the market value
marine ecosystems provide by supporting the tourism
and fishing industries, or a non-market value such as the
improved mental and physical health in a community that
has access to outdoor recreation spaces.
However, natural capital and the services it provides
face many threats, including overfishing, pollution of the
land and sea, unsustainable development, and climate
change. We need to find a balance between environmental
resilience and human activities to ensure long term
stability for both the community and the environment.
To tackle these challenges, Finance Earth and eftec
have been commissioned to develop a Natural Capital
Investment Plan (NCIP) aimed at identifying new natural
capital income opportunities. The NCIP aims to identify
opportunities to generate investment that protects and
restores ecosystems while creating value for local communities.
This work is part of a project being delivered
by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC),
the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources
(DECR), TCI Fishing Cooperative, TCI National Trust, and
Invest TCI. The project is supported by the Resilience,
Sustainable Energy and Marine Biodiversity (RESEMBID)
Programme.
The NCIP is being developed based on an extensive
stakeholder engagement programme as well as data from
various local businesses, community leaders, government,
and other stakeholders across the Islands. The NCIP
presents an important opportunity for TCI’s conservation
efforts while taking a pragmatic approach, emphasising
real world results. It will provide a framework to support
the creation of new jobs, boost the local economy, and
An example of ecosystem services is the flood protection mangrove forests provide to coastal communities.
EVE ENGLEFIELD
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 41

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
Protecting, Preserving, and
Restoring the Coral Reefs of the TCI
Come visit our Coral Growing Facility
and get your TCRF merchandise!
Located at South Bank Marina.
We are open 1-5pm
Monday - Friday
Rashguards, Stickers, BCD tags and more!
All proceeds go to our environmental
projects in TCI.
bolster the resilience of the Islands’ ecosystems. This
approach ensures that local communities and businesses
are fully involved in the plan’s implementation, with their
unique needs and priorities considered.
One of the key benefits of the NCIP is its potential
to enhance both the local economy and the natural
environment. The NCIP will identify new natural capital
income opportunities that could lead to job creation
across various sectors, such as ecotourism, conservation,
sustainable fishing, and agriculture. These new opportunities
will seek to strengthen the local economy through
diversification as well as making it more resilient to disruption
from future crises, such as pandemics, natural
disasters, and changing weather patterns.
The NCIP will also provide a framework for the sustainable
financing of projects to protect and restore the
country’s natural capital. This could potentially include
grant funding to encourage the development of early-stage
projects, as well as access to commercial or
concessionary financing for larger, more mature projects.
The NCIP aims to provide an aligned approach to
aggregation and management of funding to support the
spectrum of natural capital investment and governance
needs in TCI.
The opportunities for investment in the protection
and enhancement of TCI’s natural capital assets are
broad-based and far reaching. One example is within the
restoration and protection of coral reefs, which are vital
for TCI’s tourism industry, supporting world-class snorkelling
and diving opportunities, while also supporting
essential species that significantly contribute to marine
biodiversity and local fishing activity. By protecting and
restoring the coral reefs, the NCIP aims to ensure that
these ecosystems continue to support the tourism industry,
which contributes to around 70% of TCI’s annual
Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
When will this all happen? Stay tuned to our social
media channels for details of the launch event, which
will take place in TCI in May 2024. We will share further
details on the event and look forward to working with
you to help ensure a bright and prosperous future for the
communities, plants, animals, and landscapes of these
treasured islands. a
Stay in touch: jncc.gov.uk/community-resilience-tc • facebook.com/CommunityResilienceHubTCI
Instagram.com/CommunityResilienceHub • https://www.facebook.com/pressofficetcig • @TCIG_Press
Email with any questions: TCIcommunity@jncc.gov.uk
42 www.timespub.tc

MATT WEEDON

feature
These “scenes from South” display the pristine seas surrounding the island and the fishermen and boaters who daily ply the waters.
MATT WEEDON
On the Way Back
South Caicos, past and present.
By Dr. Carlton & Verona Mills
Anyone who has lived in the Islands for any length of time knows that patience, perseverance, and
resilience are required characteristics to survive, along with a daily dollop of hope. South Caicos is no
different. With a long history of success and achievement—many reasons to sing praises—anyone who
places their bets on South Caicos’ future won’t be disappointed.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 45

Salt, sponges, and sisal
South Caicos has a phenomenal salt history. The salt
that was produced in South Caicos helped to form the
backbone of the local economy for three centuries. The
island was included in the tripartite—three salt operations
started by Bermudians in the mid-17th century.
At the time, South Caicos was included in the Turks
Islands group along with Grand Turk and Salt Cay. It was
not until 1848 (during the term of the first president,
Alexander Forth, 1848–1852) that the Caicos Islands officially
became part of the group, changing the name to the
Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI).
With the commercialization of salt by the Bermudians,
South Caicos became a part of the global commercial
sphere. It opened the door for the island to develop economic
and trading links with Europe, the United States
and Canada, and the English-speaking Caribbean. Turks
Islands salt at the time was in such demand that it became
popularly known as “White Gold” (the equivalent to “King
Sugar” in the Caribbean).
However, salt also placed the island in a precarious
position. The income generated from salt resulted in the
creation of further European rivalry as was evident in
1764 when the French imposed their political will over
the Islands. It took diplomatic intervention of the British
to bring about a resolution to this crisis. This invasion of
the Turks Islands by France caused Britain to realize the
lucrativeness and vital importance of the salt industry.
In response to France’s actions, in 1766 Britain placed
their stamp of ownership on the Turks Islands. They
established a physical presence in the person of Andrew
Symmer who was appointed by the Bahamas Governor
Shirley as the first King’s Agent to the country.
South Caicos’ salt enriched many Bermudians as
well as Europeans. The entirety of the center of South
Caicos consisted of shallow salinas which were once
used as salt ponds. The Boiling Hole, a unique and natural
subterranean tidal passage, played a pivotal part in
salt production. South Caicos had over 800 acres of land
under salt cultivation, the largest acreage in the three
salt-producing islands.
Salt production was readily facilitated by the unique
enclosed shelter harbour that lies to the southern end
of South Caicos. In 1840, following a visit by Sir Frances
Cockburn, governor of the Bahamas with jurisdiction over
the Turks Islands, the town was officially named in honour
of him. Because of the salt activity, it also became the
main settlement in the island.
Cockburn Harbour boasts delightful Bermudian style
architecture with picturesque stone-walled streets along
Sloops came into Cockburn Harbour to carry salt, sponges, and sisal for trade to destinations across the world.
46 www.timespub.tc

with well-built drainage systems. This Bermudian heritage
is still represented in the architectural designs, streets
and street names, and also family names. Unfortunately,
Hurricanes Ike (2007) and Irma (2017) wreaked havoc on
many of these historical landmarks of South Caicos which
once stood tall for centuries. However, structures such as
the lighthouse which served as a beacon to guide sloops
safely into Cockburn Harbour still remain despite battering
over the years by natural forces.
South Caicos was also home of a thriving sponge
industry in the early 1900s. Unfortunately, this industry
eventually suffered from overfishing, low financial
returns, the blight disease, year-round harvesting, and
global competition resulting in its closure by 1938.
Sisal was also processed and shipped from South
Caicos, mainly to markets in Jamaica. This product was
important for shipping companies as it was used to make
rope for anchoring of ships and securing them to the
docks. Belts to be worn with clothing were also made with
sisal.
Shift in the economy
In the 1940s, there was a dramatic shift in the South
Caicos economy. In 1944, the US Government established
an anti-submarine base on the island. They also constructed
an airstrip, making South Caicos the first island
in the TCI to have an international airport. The airport
was handed over to the TCI Government in 1947.
By 1959, the US Coast Guard LORAN Station was
completed. This base was a low frequency radio signal
navigation system (GPS). Unfortunately, it was decommissioned
in 1982 along with the other facilities that the
US Government operated in Grand Turk as more modern
technology replaced the antiquated equipment.
In its early years of operation, the South Caicos
International Airport saw the likes of airlines such as Air
Florida, which was the first commercial airline to the TCI.
Bahamas Air also flew in from Nassau, opening up the
gateway for international travel and commerce.
The US Government also constructed three stations
on South Caicos. First Station was used as a beacon
guiding aircraft flying from North America to the eastern
Caribbean. Second Station was used as a storage facility,
while Third Station was used as a guest house.
The island received a major economic injection in the
early 1960s when the Caicos Holdings Company Ltd.,
a North American real estate company, established the
first hotel on the island—the Admiral’s Arms Hotel. This
twelve-bedroom boutique hotel was constructed on an
From top: JAGS McCartney, founder of the People’s Democratic
Movement (PDM) and TCI’s first Chief Minister in 1976, exits an Air
Florida plane at the South Caicos International Airport.
The 12-bedroom Admiral’s Arms was South Caicos’ first hotel—and
obviously a hit!
The US Coast Guard maintained a LORAN Station on South Caicos
from 1959 to 1982.
TURKS & CAICOS NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION SAILROCK TURKS & CAICOS CHUCK BLILEY
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 47

TURKS & CAICOS NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION MARINAS.COM
From top: This aerial view of South Caicos shows the seaside town of
Cockburn Harbour and the spread of salinas behind it.
Lobster fishing has always been a major source of income for South
Caicos fishermen. Lobster are processed and shipped to the U.S.
elevated site which was then known as Kersteiner Hill
after its owner Emily Ann Stubbs-Kersteiner.
As a part of their agreement, the company constructed
a terminal building at the airport in 1967 built under the
supervision of South Caicos’ very own Mr. Walter Malcolm,
Sr.. Additionally, the runway was resurfaced, with fencing
and lights to facilitate night landings also added.
In order to further facilitate their tourism product, the
company established a refueling station at the airport and
at their dock facility by the hotel. These activities opened
South Caicos up to further tourism development by air
and sea. Brazilian pilots also stopped over in South Caicos
enroute to South America. This generated an upsurge in
tourist arrivals, making the Admiral’s Arms “the place to
be.” In-house generators were added to provide electricity.
This action resulted in many local residents clamoring
for electric services. This public demand resulted in the
Caicos Company Holdings Ltd. starting the first private
electric company in the TCI.
During this era, the first major fishing plant operated
by Mike Derby was established in South Caicos where lobsters
were processed and shipped to the United States.
South Caicos is also known as home to the bonefish, popular
for fly fishing tourists and hungry locals alike.
The lucrative fishing business gave South Caicos the
48 www.timespub.tc

TMW2022.qxp_Layout 1 3/2/22 3:41 PM Page 1
TURKS & CAICOS NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION
The late HM Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip visited South Caicos
in 1966 to much excitement and pagentry.
reputation of being the “Fishing Capital of the TCI.” It
also attracted more investment. One such investor,
Harold Crown, established a market for lobster, conch,
and conch shells in Florida. This resulted in him taking
conch shells via his boat the Shell Factory to Florida and
in return, bringing back merchandise for his hardware
and grocery store. South Caicos residents could now shop
for United States merchandise right at home. The Shell
Factory was also captained by local South Caicos man
Captain Bruce Lightbourne.
In 1966, during her visit to the British colonies, the
late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll and her husband,
Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh, visited South Caicos.
During her visit there was a parade of Caicos sloops in
the harbor to celebrate her visit. These sloops, an integral
part of the salt culture, made a picture-perfect display for
the Royals to enjoy.
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South Caicos Regatta
To commemorate the auspicious occasion of the Queen’s
visit, a Regatta Committee was formed in 1967 birthing
the oldest festival in the Islands, the South Caicos Regatta.
The highlights of this event were the sloops, sailboat, and
SAILROCK TURKS & CAICOS
Formed in 1967, the South Caicos Regatta is the country’s oldest festival.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 49

SAILROCK TURKS & CAICOS
The pristine beach at Sailrock Resort on South Caicos is one reason why it has won numerous travellers’ awards.
speed boat races, followed in the evenings by pageants
along with music and dancing. Regatta took place thereafter
every year with the exception of one year due to
the COVID-19 pandemic (2020). The South Caicos Regatta
holds the trophy for being the oldest cultural festival in
the Islands, celebrating its 57th anniversary this year.
Outstanding citizens
South Caicos has produced some of the most outstanding
citizens in the TCI. Notably in this lot are the Astwoods,
with Dr. Donald Astwood being the country’s first local
dentist, along with his three sons, two of whom were
dentists and one a medical doctor. South Caicos has
also produced the first local chief medical officer and
chief nursing officer in the persons of brother and sister
Dr. Hugh Malcolm and Nurse Beatrice Burton. The
island is known for producing prominent businesspeople
such as Mr. Clarence Fulford and his wife Louise. Most
of their children followed in their footsteps, especially
the Fulford sisters who also owned businesses and now
his son George, who has the main hardware store on
South Caicos. There were also Edmond Ewing and his
son George, in whose store one would find almost any
merchandise at the time. Also prominent was Mr. William
Mills, who was not only an outstanding businessman but
a politician and lay preacher as well. Additionally, there
were Mr. Lloyd Stubbs and Hugh Wilson. Carrying on the
fishing industry were the Jennings brothers, Thomas
(Tooks) Stubbs and George Lockhart.
As it currently stands, Mr. Lewis Cox is the glue that
holds business together in South Caicos. Together with
his children, they own the primary grocery store, the main
refueling station for local fishermen, passing yachts, and
vehicles and the major fishing plant. The Cox family also
operates one of the TCI’s few locally owned hotels in
Ocean Beach Resort.
South Caicos is famous for producing many local
pilots who have developed some of the most outstanding
reputations in the aviation industry. In the area of politics,
Hon. Norman Saunders of South Caicos holds the
belt for being the longest serving member of the House
of Assembly (accumulatively). The island can also boast
of having the first speaker of the Legislative Council in
1976, Hon. George Ewing. The current Speaker of the
House of Assembly Gordon Burton also hails from South
Caicos as well as the former Deputy Premier Hon. Erwin
Jay Saunders and Minister of Education, Youth, Culture
and Library Services Hon. Rachel Taylor.
50 www.timespub.tc

A bright future
South Caicos is gearing up for a number of local projects
intended to enhance its pristine beauty and rich heritage.
These include the enhancement and restoration of Conch
Ground Bay; redevelopment of the Regatta Village; Cedar
Park Development; community road development; and
airport terminal development. This follows on the heels
of ongoing works to complete the terminal building for
reopening; completion of the fire station at the airport;
and the presence of a fire truck and further upgrading of
the airstrip. Furthermore, a recent press release revealed
that top government officials, along with the Member of
Parliament for South Caicos Hon. John Jamael Malcolm,
recently met with a couple who own a home at Sail Rock
in regards to providing the finances for city water to every
household on the island. While some may be skeptical
about this initiative, it does provide hope for a people
who have all their lives depended on rain water to fill their
tanks and drums. In essence, this could be a dream come
true for many.
It is also my dream that South Caicos will also witness
a further development to Conch Ground Bay to accommodate
yachts from all over the world. This can lead to
several spin-offs and an added feature to the South Caicos
Regatta festivities where several categories of staged racing
events for yachts can be included.
Sailrock is a premier luxury resort and residential
community nestled on South Caicos’ ridges and pristine
beaches. In 2024, it was named “Resort Hotel of the Year”
by Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH). Sailrock South
Caicos is known for its stunning natural beauty, impeccable
service, luxurious accommodations, and its barefoot
luxury getaway appeal. The resort recently received the
Condé Nast Johansens Award for Excellence 2024 for Best
Service (USA, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean) for
the fourth successive year, and was named the World’s
Leading Luxury Villa Resort 2023 at the World Travel
Awards for the second year in a row.
The 100-room East Bay Hotel is now being revamped
and transformed into the Salterra Resort and Spa. The
property is currently undergoing significant renovations.
It is expected to open its doors in early 2025, making it
the first Luxury Collection property in the TCI.
This is wonderful news for South Caicos, this little
gem with tranquil beaches where guests can reconnect
with nature and soothe their minds, away from the hustle
and bustle of the developed world. South Caicos is
certainly on the comeback trail. The “Big” is once again
returning to the Big South. a
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 51

feature
Opposite page: Entrepreneur Mary Forbes showcases her new tour company Island Mystique at TCI’s popular Thursday night Fish Fry held
at Stubbs Diamond Plaza in Providenciales.
Above: Guests showcase their bookmarks made from straw at Island Mystique’s HandCraft Experience at Grace Bay Market. It is the perfect
way to immerse into TCI local culture and ideal for any group visiting Turks & Caicos.
New Company, Old Roots
Island Mystique showcases the soul of TCI.
By Rachel Craft ~ Images Courtesy Island Mystique
“You’ve never experienced us like this before.”
That’s the slogan of TCI’s newest tour company, Island Mystique, which launched in late 2023. Island
Mystique aims to be the Islands’ first culturally immersive tour company by inviting visitors to step out
of their resorts and into the art, music, and history of the Turks & Caicos.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 53

“The keyword for us is immersive,” said Mary Fulford,
CEO and founder of Island Mystique. Her goal is for visitors
to not only learn about local culture, but actively
participate in it. That’s why Island Mystique offers a menu
of interactive experiences led by local chefs, artists,
and other experts. For example, “Turks Link Up” allows
guests to paint something meaningful to the Islands
while exploring its cultural significance—like the conch
shell, which was historically used for communication.
“Cook What You Catch” takes guests on a boat excursion
to catch fish and learn about TCI’s fishing industry, then
to a secluded beach to cook and eat lunch picnic-style.
“Back in de Day” features historians sharing local folklore
around a fire pit and incorporating traditional song and
dance. For more in-depth experiences, Island Mystique
offers customizable packages that incorporate several
activities—like “Flavors of TCI,” which includes a foodie
tour, cooking class, and four-course meal crafted by a
private chef.
Fulford’s vision for Island Mystique grew out of a gap
she noticed in TCI’s tourism industry. In 2021, while
working at the Ritz-Carlton on Providenciales, she found
guests frequently asking for local experiences—but
there wasn’t much to give them. The closest thing is the
Thursday night Fish Fry in The Bight, but this is only held
once a week. Fulford saw a niche waiting to be filled.
“We’re predominantly a country that only promotes sun,
sea, and sand,” she said. “We’re not the only country with
an amazing beach. What’s gonna give us a competitive
edge?”
She hopes her company will help give TCI this edge
by providing activities that shine a light on its unique
culture, not just the beaches. She emphasized the importance
of finding local experts—like a chef who practices
traditional cooking methods, or an artist who learned to
weave straw from her mother and grandmother. Fulford
used conch ceviche as an example: It’s a popular local
dish that you’ll find in any restaurant, even in the Ritz-
Carlton, but “it’s not the same as when made by a local
person.”
Filling this void in the tourism industry could help
visitors get more out of their vacations, and even boost
TCI’s economy in the long run—but Island Mystique’s
mission goes deeper than that. As someone who was
born and raised on the Islands, Fulford recognizes the
challenge of preserving TCI’s precious culture. This cul-
Island Mystique guests are introduced to authentic native dishes during a cooking class where items are purchased from the local Kewtown
Farmers Market to be used in preparing the meal. Chef Melissa (at right) is explaining how to prepare the fish.
54 www.timespub.tc

ture is often hard to identify, even
by locals, because the country’s long
and tumultuous history has led to a
fractured sense of identity. “Because
we’re a melting pot of so many different
nationalities,” Fulford says, “it
kind of masks who we are.”
This melting pot has been brewing
since at least the 700s, when
the Islands were inhabited by the
Arawakan-speaking Lucayan Taíno
people. The Taíno grew to a population
of some 40,000 across what
are now the Turks & Caicos and the
Bahamas, where they developed a
sophisticated government system,
cultivated dozens of crops, and built
an extensive trade route network. All
of this was lost around the turn of the
16th century, when European explorers
arrived—along with new diseases
and the slave trade—which together
wiped out the Taino within the first
generation of colonization.
With the indigenous people
gone, outside forces began to
shape a new and eclectic culture. In
the 1600s, settlers from Bermuda
arrived to establish a salt industry
in TCI’s natural high-salinity ponds.
In the 1700s, the Islands passed
into the hands of France, Spain,
and later, Britain. Pirates from various
countries frequented the Turks
& Caicos, and Loyalist sympathizers
moved here from the US after
the American Revolution, bringing
African-descended slaves with them.
The Islands were annexed to The
Bahamas, then Jamaica, and finally, in
1962, TCI became the British territory
it is today.
Because of all the influences that
have shaped TCI over the centuries,
the country’s culture is a slippery
concept. “When you come from slave
states like ours, everything is demoralized,
everything is less . . . there’s
nothing to be proud of,” says Dr.
From top: Bugaloos in Five Cays is one of the stops on Island Mystique’s Foodie Tour where
guests see a conch harvest and live conch preparation. This same conch can be used in many
ways; here, the “beat” conch will be added to a Peas and Grits pot.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 55

From top: Handcraft Instructor Daphny Forbes teaches a guest how to plait straw to make a
bookmark. Sugar &, a local sweet treat store located in Grace Bay Market, offers Foodie Tour
guests a small package of local treats (Salt Cay candies, cream cakes, and milk duce), along
with an explanation of their cultural significance.
Della Higgs, a social scientist who
works for the TCI National Trust and
serves as a cultural advisor for Island
Mystique. “We’re still in the process
of creating an identity that is valued.”
It doesn’t help that many of TCI’s
current residents moved here from
other countries, or that much of the
economy depends on tourism. “There
are so many people wanting to live
here and wanting a piece of the
Islands,” Higgs said. When your livelihood
depends on tourists, it’s easy to
prioritize their needs over preserving
and protecting your own culture. And
this is issue isn’t unique to TCI—it’s
common across the Caribbean.
“So much of the authenticity of
Caribbean cultural heritage is missing
and whitewashed in tourism,” Higgs
says. That’s why she was excited
when Fulford approached her with
her vision for Island Mystique. She
hopes companies like Island Mystique
will be the first step in bridging the
gap between locals and tourists,
teaching outsiders about the Islands’
true identity, and tackling the challenge
of cultural preservation.
Through her work at the National
Trust, Higgs is dedicated to conserving
and promoting TCI’s rich cultural,
historic, and natural heritage. The
National Trust conducts public
awareness and education outreach
programs to this effect and manages
heritage sites like Cheshire Hall and
Wade’s Green Plantation. Higgs says
there are tour companies that stop
at some of these heritage sites, but
that’s as far as most visitors get to
know TCI’s culture. Island Mystique
aims to go a step further, creating
opportunities for guests to experience
the soul of the Islands firsthand.
One key to sustainable tourism
is offering activities that help visitors
interact with residents. This lets
tourists glimpse the true nature of a
56 www.timespub.tc

place, rather than just its resorts, and give their dollars to
local businesses rather than international conglomerates.
A common problem in the Caribbean, Higgs says, is that
“We don’t own tourism in our countries.” Many residents
work at someone else’s resort, for example, but few benefit
directly from the tourism industry. Companies like
Island Mystique help bring ownership to local people.
“We need to get behind and stand behind businesses like
these,” Higgs emphasizes.
From top: Freshly caught fish are a backbone of TCI fare. Among the
most authentic preparation techniques is deep-frying over a coal fire.
Later this year, Island Mystique hopes to add a one-night, two-day,
farm-to-table experience in North Caicos.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 57

So far, people seem to be getting behind Island
Mystique. The company has been sponsored by Invest
TCI, an agency that works to build the local economy by
supporting entrepreneurs, and Fulford recently secured a
partnership with global luxury travel group Luxe Tribes.
Since launching late last year, Fulford has received
promising feedback from her first clients—like how therapeutic
the straw handcraft activity is and how the cooking
classes build a sense of togetherness. “What you want is
those fulfilling moments, those shared experiences that
interlink us with each other and create a sense of belonging,”
she adds.
While Island Mystique’s offerings are currently limited
to Provo, Fulford hopes to expand to TCI’s lesser-visited
islands—like North Caicos, which is a perfect candidate.
“[North Caicos] is so pristine and untouched with its culture,”
she explains, “It’s so authentically Turks & Caicos.”
She hopes to add a one-night, two-day farm-to-table
experience in North Caicos to Island Mystique’s offerings
later this year, and to eventually offer immersive experiences
on every island. “We want to promote each island,”
she said, “to help their local economies and the persons
who live there.”
For visitors, Island Mystique promises a slew of new
things to do in TCI and a way to connect with the country
on a deeper level. For locals, it’s one small way to
put ownership of tourism back where it belongs: into the
hands of the people who live here. It’s also the first tour
company—of many, we can hope—focused on celebrating
TCI’s culture in all its forms.
“We are more than sun, sea, and sand,” Fulford extols.
“I want [visitors] to see who we are, indulge in who we
are, and know that we are still here.” a
CEO and founder of Island Mystique Mary Fulford is part of ongoing
efforts by Invest TCI to encourage ownership by local entrepreneurs.
58 www.timespub.tc

astrolabe
newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
Front Street, PO Box 188, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI TKCA 1ZZ
tel 649 247 2160/US incoming 786 220 1159 • email info@tcmuseum.org • web www.tcmuseum.org
Small stations and residences were built at various points across East Caicos to facilitate the workings of sisal, guano mining, and the cattle
industry. This Great House ruin is on an elevation at Breezy Point.
AGILE LE VIN—WWW.VISITTCI.COM
A Property Puzzle
The controversial ownership of Breezy Point on East Caicos – Part Two.
By Jeff Dodge
Who were the legitimate owners of East Caicos island, or more specifically, a tract of land at Breezy
Point? The answer to this question turns out to be a convoluted story that is proving difficult to unwind.
This is Part Two of the story that began in 1807 with the Ingham brothers of Bermuda. Part One was
published in the Winter 2023/24 edition of Astrolabe.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 59

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
This overhead photo of Breezy Point on East Caicos depicts the land granted to John and Thomas Ingham Jr. in 1807 by the governor of the
Bahamas.
Part One synopsis
In 1807 John and Thomas Ingham Jr. were issued land
grants from the governor of the Bahamas for 1,368 acres
of land at Breezy Point on East Caicos. John received 480
acres and his brother 888 acres.
John had two children, Rose and Robert, with Eve,
a slave owned by John McIntosh. Rose and Robert were
manumitted (freed) before John’s death in 1818. His will
bequeathed his property, in trust, to his children. The
trust, to be managed by his executors, would terminate
in 1826 and the property would then belong to John’s
children.
Thomas Jr. died in 1823 intestate (without leaving
a will); his wife died a few weeks later. Copeland John
Stamers, his stepson and the estate administrator, ended
up inheriting Thomas Jr.’s 888 acre Breezy Point parcel.
Copeland John Stamers died in 1866 leaving his
personal and real property to his three children. His will
bequeathed 1,360 acres of land at Breezy Point to his chil-
dren. His will stated that this included both Thomas Jr.’s
land as well as John Ingham’s 480 acre parcel. Stamers
claimed John’s land by right of “continued occupancy.”
No documentation has surfaced to indicate Rose and
Robert ever became owners of their father’s 480 acre parcel
at Breezy Point. Rose and Robert were only 10 and 12
years old at the time of their father’s death and being the
children of a slave could explain why they might not have
been made aware of their inheritance.
In 1871, the three children of Copeland J. Stamers
acquired a 99-year lease from the government for additional
land on East Caicos. The size of the leased property
was not stated, but it probably included most of East
Caicos excluding Breezy Point. Nine months later, they
sold the 1,288 [sic] acres at Breezy Point and the 99-year
lease for the additional land to John N. Reynolds, a salt
merchant on South Caicos.The difference between the
1,368 acres granted to the Ingham brothers and the
1,288 acres sold to Reynolds was never explained.
60 www.timespub.tc

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
Note: Various documents have described the land
originally granted to the Ingham brothers as being somewhere
between 1,288 acres and 1,400 acres in size. Some
differences could be attributed to various surveys.
The story continues . . .
John N. Reynolds purchased the 1,288 acre parcel at
Breezy Point and the 99 year lease from the children of
Copeland J. Stamers in 1871 for $1,000. Reynolds raised
cattle on this property in accordance with the terms of
the 99 year lease agreement. Bat guano was discovered
in caves on the northwest side of East Caicos in the early
1880s. Reynolds exported this valuable fertilizer to
Jamaica and other islands until it played out a few years
later.
John Reynolds and his will
John Reynolds married Elizabeth Adams around 1876—a
few years after the death of Bridget, his first wife. John
Reynolds died in March 1890. Eight children and his wife
Elizabeth survived him. Reynolds left the 1,288 acre parcel
at Breezy Point to Elizabeth and his daughters Grace
and Alice. He left the remaining years of the 99 year lease
to his wife and all eight of his children.
A month after the death of John Reynolds, his wife
and eight children leased the property they inherited
on East Caicos to Jeremiah D. Murphy of Grand Turk for
20 years—the lease was renewable for an additional 10
years. Murphy and his partner used the land to grow sisal,
forming the East Caicos Sisal Company in 1891. It is not
known what, if anything, the Reynolds family did with
their land following the failure of the sisal operation in
1919 and the expiration of Murphy’s lease.
Grace Reynolds becomes sole owner
The oldest Reynolds children began moving to Boston
from the Turks & Caicos Islands in 1884. Shortly after
the death of John Reynolds in 1890, his entire family was
living in the US—most of them in the Boston area.
In 1928, Grace became the sole owner of her father’s
1,288 acre parcel at Breezy Point following the death of
her mother Elizabeth in 1928—her sister Alice had died
in 1909.
In 1888, John N. Reynolds advertised in the Royal Gazette (Bermuda) that he wanted to sell or lease his holdings at Breezy Point on East
Caicos. Reynolds built the tramway to transport bat guano from the caves on East Caicos to Jacksonville on the northernmost point of the
island. From there, it would have been shipped to Jamaica and other islands where sugar cane was grown. This advertisement supports the
theory that Reynolds’ decision to sell his portable tramway separately, as well as his land on East Caicos, was because the guano had played
out. (Note: The advertisement incorrectly states that Breezy Point [Cape Comet] was located on North Caicos!)
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 61

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
Grace conveys land to her daughter
Alice Jobling, Grace’s daughter by her first marriage, married
James Christensen, a Bermudian, in 1935. Sometime
following Grace’s return to Boston in 1942 and before
1949, Grace transferred her land at Breezy Point to Alice,
probably by quit claim deed. Apparently at the time it
could only be sold or transferred to a British subject
and Alice qualified by her marriage to Christensen, a
Bermudian.
Grace Reynolds married Ernest Jobling in 1901. They had three children,
Alice, Louise, and Ernest. Grace divorced Jobling in 1925 and
married James Lake, an insurance investigator, a few months later.
Californians try to colonize Grace’s property
In 1938, Richard Irving, a traveling salesman from
California, met Grace’s second husband James Lake at
a hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. Lake, an insurance investigator,
was attending a conference there. During their
conversation one evening, Lake mentioned that his wife
owned land on East Caicos. Irving, distressed with the
situation in America for the middle class and his view
that the Roosevelt Administration was heading toward
socialism, was immediately interested. Irving and Lake
developed a plan whereby a small group of like-minded
individuals would move to Grace’s inheritance on East
Caicos to form a colony.
In early 1940, a group of 19 “pioneers” left California
bound for East Caicos. Grace’s husband James Lake, who
had visited the Turks & Caicos Islands a few years earlier,
promised the group that many valuable resources
awaited them on East Caicos such as wild cattle, fertile
land for growing crops, fruit trees, and much more. In
addition, Lake told the group they would be self-sufficient
within a few months because they could sell the sisal that
was growing wild, bat guano from the caves, and the wild
donkeys to a dog food company.
It wasn’t long before the group discovered that
none of James Lake’s promises were true. Disappointed,
most of the group left East Caicos within months of their
arrival. The last to leave was James Lake in 1943. Grace,
his wife, left the year before. (Read more about the effort
to colonize East Caicos at: https://www.timespub.
tc/2018/01/modern-crusoes/.)
Christensen visits East Caicos but sells
In June 1949, James Christensen and Herbert Crisson led
a party of a dozen Bermudians to East Caicos aboard the
M.V. Zolaleta to determine if it could be developed into
a tourist resort. They were disappointed with conditions
there—especially the millions of mosquitoes. However,
they were impressed by the beautiful beaches and the
presence of fresh water. The expedition was considered
a success—despite the mosquitoes—and group leaders
planned to seek £1,000,000 following their return to
Bermuda so they could develop the property.
Money to develop Breezy Point following the
Christensen expedition never materialized and in 1976
they sold their East Caicos holdings to Solar Enterprises
Ltd. of Bermuda.
Solar Enterprises sell the property
In 1998 the Royal Gazette reported that there were
72 shareholders in Solar Enterprises Ltd. and that the
1,375.5 acre parcel of land on East Caicos was their primary
asset. (It’s amazing how the size of this property
changes.) It was also reported that a buyer from the State
of Maryland had offered to buy the property for $7.09
million—this deal collapsed in December 1998.
Solar Enterprises Ltd. announced in February 2006
that it had sold the 1,375 acre parcel at Breezy Point for
$8.5 million. The company went into voluntary liquidation
in late 2006 after paying their shareholders a dividend of
$9.25/share. Although the name of the buyer was not
reported at the time, it was probably the Arden Group of
Philadelphia. 1
Other attempts to develop East Caicos
Dr. John Bell—the Loyalist period
Dr. John Bell, a Scotsman, arrived on the island of
1
Fred Pearce, YaleEnvironment360, “On an Unspoiled Caribbean Isle, Grand Plans
for Big Tourist Port,” June 29, 2015.
62 www.timespub.tc

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
This stone wall was built along the shore in the Breezy Point area. The fact that it is in such good condition after hundreds of years is a testament
to those who built it and toiled here.
AGILE LE VIN—WWW.VISITTCI.COM
Carriacou (near Grenada) circa 1776. He bought his
first property there in 1777 and began growing cotton
for export. He continued buying and selling land on
Carriacou until at least 1795. 2
John Bell began visiting The Bahamas in 1789 searching
for land beyond Carriacou in order to expand his
cotton production. Though no documentary evidence
has been found to indicate John Bell was ever a Loyalist,
the Crown gave him three land grants in 1791 for 1,100
acres of land on Grand Caicos. Bell was one of at least 83
grantees to receive at least 112 land grants on the Caicos
Islands and Providenciales from the British Government
between 1789 and 1794. The majority of land grants
were on North and Middle Caicos. However at least four
were on Providenciales and one was on East Caicos.
Most of those receiving these grants were Loyalists from
America. 3
Bell’s largest land grant was for 720 acres on what
is now Middle Caicos. An 80 acre grant was for a small
island west of the passage Windward Going Through
(between Middle and East Caicos) and the third grant
was for 300 acres eastward of Windward Going Through
on East Caicos. Over the next few years Bell purchased
more land, greatly expanding the size of his Caicos holdings.
Bell created two plantations on his Caicos property
that he named Increase and Industry. Though Bell built a
house and planted 300 acres of cotton on Middle Caicos,
he probably spent most of his time on Carriacou because,
though never married, Bell had two families on Carriacou
as well as several plantations to manage.
Bell wrote his will on the island of Guadeloupe in
1800 and died shortly thereafter. His will bequeathed
his Carriacou properties to his daughter Mary Ann and
her mother Alziere; to his three children by Margaret, his
2
J. Beatty, I Bear Witness: An African's Quest for Faith and Community in the Atlantic World, 2014.
3
Beth Wagstaff, genealogical researcher, Auckland, New Zealand.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 63

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
The 540 acre parcel above is possibly the property Richard Padgett received in exchange for the 92 acre parcel he had purchased from the
TCI Government in 2005.
manumitted slave; and to his Scottish nieces and nephews.
Bell’s will did not mention his Increase or Industry
plantations on the Caicos Islands. 4
An 1801 inventory of Dr. Bell’s Caicos properties
records that his Increase Plantation had grown to
1,470 acres and that Industry Plantation consisted of
about 1,000 acres. The inventory reiterated that Bell’s
properties included 300 acres on East Caicos that were
separately valued at £150. What Bell did with his East
Caicos acreage is unknown, however it is unlikely this
land was planted or developed.
By 1800, cotton production in The Bahamas was in
decline due to insect infestations, worn out soil, and low
cotton prices. Many cotton planters were selling or abandoning
their properties. Since John Bell did not mention
Increase or Industry Plantations in his will, it’s assumed
he abandoned them or left them to his slaves. However,
slaves typically could not afford to maintain an estate
like Bell’s. Though the final disposition of Bell’s Caicos
property is unknown, it probably reverted to government
ownership within a few years of his death.
John Houseman - Developer
Retired British S.O.E. (Special Operations Executive) officer
and journalist John Houseman, his wife, and their
two children, having obtained a government lease for
land on East Caicos, moved there in 1968 to establish
a hotel. Houseman gave up the plan eight months later
and moved back to Grand Turk. He became the editor of
the Conch News.
Richard Padgett - Developer
British developer Richard Padgett built a house on
Providenciales in 1996. His plan was to build a hotel and
develop the property that was once the Third Turtle Club.
In early 2005, Padgett acquired 92 acres of government
land near Breezy Point on East Caicos. (The 99-year
lease the Stamers children sold to John Reynolds in 1871
had expired and it’s likely the property reverted to government
ownership even earlier). Pagett acquired this
land without a survey and later complained to the government
that he needed an easement across other property
4
J. Beatty, I Bear Witness: An African’s Quest for Faith and Community in the
Atlantic World, 2014.
64 www.timespub.tc

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
Islands government ministers. Under
the settlement agreement, Padgett
transferred all his properties back to
the government plus a cash contribution
of $75,000 to cover the cost of
the investigation. In March 2009, as
the result of the corruption investigation,
the premier of the TCI resigned.
Five months later the United Kingdom
suspended Turks & Caicos self-government
and the British governor
took over direct rule until October
2012. 7
Breezy Point today
Today Breezy Point remains vacant
land—no one lives there and it has
not been developed. But, it has had a
long and interesting history since the
Ingham brothers became the owners
by way of land grants in 1807.
At left is a summary chart of
the many who have owned this land
at Breezy Point. Who will be the next
owner? Will East Caicos be developed
for the cruise ship industry or
become a resort? Only time will tell.
Some would like it to remain the
largest undeveloped island in the
Caribbean. 8 a
for better access to Breezy Point. He also complained
that he had lost 18 acres of beachfront property due to
erosion. In 2007, the government agreed to exchange
Padgett’s 92 acre parcel for three parcels of government
land totaling about 540 acres—a very sweet deal indeed. 5
Between August 2003 and August 2009 Padgett had
been making hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal
payments to corrupt senior government officials for
favorable real estate deals. In May 2013, Padgett pleaded
guilty to bribery and filing false documents. 6
Due to ill health, Padgett, then living in England, was
given a suspended jail sentence for bribing Turks & Caicos
The author wishes to thank the following
individuals for their valuable contributions: Linda
Abend of Bermuda for searching the Bermuda Archives
for original documents; John Adams, former Bermuda
Government Archivist now living in the UK; and Beth
Wagstaff, genealogical researcher, Auckland, N.Z.
5
TCI-SIT.org, February 3, 2016
6
The Sun TCI, May 31, 2013
7
Ibid
8
Fred Pearce, YaleEnvironment 360, On an Unspoiled Caribbean Isle, Grand Plans
for Big Tourist Port, June 29, 2015
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 65

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
SHUTTERSTOCK
Among the most currently identifiable shipwrecks in the Turks & Caicos Islands is the Soviet oil rig service vessel refitted as a Panamanian
cargo ship La Famille Express. In 2004, the heavy winds of Hurricane Frances caused the ship to drift from its anchored position in the South
Dock area of Providenciales and become permanently stranded in the shallow waters of the Caicos Banks, about two miles off Long Bay Beach.
Run Aground
An introduction to the shipwrecks of the Turks & Caicos Islands.
By James Jenney, The Bahamas Lost Ship Project
There can be little doubt that the arrival of Europeans in the West Indies was one of the most significant
events in modern history. Explorers arrived in strange looking ships, dressed in strange clothing, spoke
a foreign language, and immediately showed their goal to be one of conquest rather than a social visit.
66 www.timespub.tc

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
But the subject of this article is not the history of
early European explorers. It is, rather, meant to be an
introduction into the maritime history of the area, and
specifically of the Turks & Caicos Islands based on the
lost ships that abound throughout this region. It is a fact
that wherever men travel on water in ships, they leave
behind wreckage of their voyages and vessels.
Any discussion of shipwrecks ultimately leads to the
question of the cause of the shipwreck. In simplest terms,
shipwrecks have one of three root causes. The first is
weather. If the weather is good and visibility clear, the
number of wrecks can be expected to be fewer. The second
cause is human error. In terms of a shipwreck this
can be the result of less than adequate skill of the mariner
in handling his vessel, incorrect or incomplete charts,
an improperly built craft, or other issues within his control
that were not handled properly. The third cause is
“non-weather related” issues—usually war or other hostile
activities by pirates, privateers, and such. Any or all of
these factors can lead to a loss of a vessel.
The location of the Turks & Caicos Islands is a key
to the number of lost vessels. Situated at what could
be called the entrance to one of the popular routes to
and from Caribbean ports—north of Hispaniola, northeastward
from Cuba, and south and easterly from the
Bahamas—the amount of vessel traffic in the waters surrounding
the Turks Islands and the Caicos Bank meant
that accuracy in navigation was necessary. On the western
side of the Caicos Bank is found the Caicos Passage, sort
of an extension of (or it could be said to be a part of) the
Windward Passage that offered vessels from the southern
Caribbean an outward-bound route to the Atlantic Ocean.
On the northward side of the Caicos Islands is the Atlantic
Ocean. It seems that the nearshore waters on that side of
the Caicos Islands was also subject to considerable vessel
activity . . . and wrecks.
In the past, most researchers who have studied shipwrecks
in the West Indies have typically been focused on
shiny objects of great value, a.k.a. treasure. But there is
more than one definition for the word treasure and heretofore
no one seems to have taken the time to study all
of the wrecks lost in the West Indies. They include those
workaday vessels who carried salt, sugar, cotton, logwood,
and a variety of other cargoes northward or who
brought finished goods, provisions, building supplies,
and such to ports in the Caribbean Basin. There was significant
travel in both directions and where they sailed,
they often wrecked.
At present, there are more than 650 documented
wrecks in the waters of the Turks & Caicos. The earliest
wreck dates back to the summer of 1500 and may
be that of the Pinta, one of the ships that first crossed
the Atlantic with Christopher Columbus. Unfortunately, it
seems that those who found the wreck were more interested
in looking for shiny stuff and may have destroyed
one of the earliest wrecks of that vintage ever known to
have been found in the West Indies.
The latest wreck, at least to my knowledge, took place
in 2012 and remained visible on the west side of Grand
Turk for some time. For wrecks that have been assigned
a somewhat specific location, the numeric top ten sites
would be: Grand Turk Island (also known as Grand Key)
—75 wrecks; Caicos Bank—55; West Caicos—45; Grand
Caicos (Middle Caicos)—36; Providenciales—26; North
Caicos—24; Birch’s Lookout—19, Salt Key (also known as
Little Turks Island)—18; East Caicos—17; and the Caicos
Passage—17. The number of shipwrecks lost at these
sites, added together, equates to 50% of all the wrecks in
the country.
As to the types of vessels which can be found here,
they include: Caravel, ship, brig, brigantine, sloop, schooner
(2, 3 and 4-masted schooners), bark (or barque),
steamship, motorship, and screw powered diesel-engine
vessels. As to their nationalities, almost every major country
plus a large number of minor countries’ vessels left
their bones here: American, Bahamian, Bermudan, British,
Canadian, Colombian, Danish, Dutch, Estonian, French,
German, Greek, Haitian, Honduran, Jamaican, Japanese,
Norwegian, Panamanian, Portuguese, Russian, Sardinian,
Scottish, Spanish, Swedish, and local vessels from Turks
& Caicos. The collection of wrecks here can truly be called
international in scope.
A more detailed study of the shipwrecks at the Turks
& Caicos Islands will follow in future editions of Astrolabe.
a
James Jenney is the director of research for the Bahamas
Lost Ships Project, which is working in collaboration with
the Bahamas Maritime Museum and Carl Allen of Allen
Explorations. For more information, visit https://www.
bahamasmaritimemuseum.com.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 67

astrolabe newsletter of the Turks & Caicos National Museum
Museum Matters
Current days & hours of operation:
Grand Turk (Front Street): Hours vary daily, but in
general open on all cruise ship days 9 AM to 1 PM.
When a ship arrives on or after 9 AM, we will open one
hour after arrival for three hours.
Providenciales (The Village at Grace Bay): Open
Tuesday and Thursday, 10 AM to 2 PM.
Both locations include interesting exhibits and artifacts
related to the history and culture of the Islands.
Visit our gift shops for souvenirs, history books, and
locally made products such as baskets, jewelry, salt
products, and more.
Days and times of operation are subject to change,
so please check our website or email us for updated
information:
www.tcmuseum.org
info@tcmuseum.org
68 www.timespub.tc

about the Islands
Map provided courtesy Wavey Line Publishing. Their navigation charts and decorative and historic maps of the Turks & Caicos Islands, The
Bahamas and Hispaniola are available in shops throughout the Islands. Visit www.amnautical.com.
Where we are
The Turks & Caicos Islands lie some 575 miles southeast
of Miami — approximately 1 1/2 hours flying time —
with The Bahamas about 30 miles to the northwest and
the Dominican Republic some 100 miles to the southeast.
The country consists of two island groups separated
by the 22-mile wide Columbus Passage. To the west are
the Caicos Islands: West Caicos, Providenciales, North
Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos and South Caicos. To
the east are the Turks Islands: Grand Turk and Salt Cay.
The Turks & Caicos total 166 square miles of land
area on eight islands and 40 small cays. The country’s
population is approximately 43,000.
Getting here
There are international airports on Grand Turk,
Providenciales, and South Caicos, with domestic airports
on all of the islands except East Caicos.
As of April 1, 2023, all COVID-19 related travel
restrictions have been removed for travel to the Turks &
Caicos Islands. There is no vaccine, testing, or insurance
requirement. On August 12, 2022, the last day of statistics,
32,338 people were vaccinated in the Turks & Caicos
against COVID-19 (at least one dose). This was approximately
73% of the total population. For more information
and details, visit www.visittci.com.
Language
English.
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 69

Time zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)/Daylight Savings Time
observed.
Currency
The United States dollar. The Treasury also issues a Turks
& Caicos crown and quarter. Travellers cheques in U.S.
dollars are widely accepted and other currency can be
changed at local banks. American Express, VISA and
MasterCard are welcomed at many locations.
Climate
The average year-round temperature is 83ºF (28ºC). The
hottest months are September and October, when the
temperature can reach 90 to 95ºF (33 to 35ºC). However,
the consistent easterly trade winds temper the heat and
keep life comfortable.
Casual resort and leisure wear is accepted attire for
daytime; light sweaters or jackets may be necessary on
some breezy evenings. It’s wise to wear protective clothing
and a sunhat and use waterproof sunscreen when out
in the tropical sun.
Entry requirements
Passport. A valid onward or return ticket is also required.
Customs formalities
Visitors may bring in duty free for their own use one carton
of cigarettes or cigars, one bottle of liquor or wine,
and some perfume. The importation of all firearms including
those charged with compressed air without prior
approval in writing from the Commissioner of Police is
strictly forbidden. Spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled
drugs and pornography are also illegal.
Returning residents may bring in $400 worth of
merchandise per person duty free. A duty of 10% to
60% is charged on most imported goods along with a
7% customs processing fee and forms a major source of
government revenue.
Transportation
A valid driver’s license from home is suitable when renting
vehicles. A government tax of 12% is levied on all rental
contracts. (Insurance is extra.) Driving is on the left-hand
side of the road, with traffic flow controlled by roundabouts
at major junctions. Taxis and community cabs are
abundant throughout the Islands and many resorts offer
shuttle service between popular visitor areas. Scooter,
motorcycle and bicycle rentals are also available.
Telecommunications
FLOW Ltd. provides land lines and superfast broadband
Internet service. Mobile service is on a LTE 4G network,
including pre- and post-paid cellular phones. Most resorts
and some stores and restaurants offer wireless Internet
connections. Digicel operates mobile networks, with
a full suite of LTE 4G service. FLOW is the local carrier
for CDMA roaming on US networks such as Verizon and
Sprint. North American visitors with GSM cellular handsets
and wireless accounts with AT&T or Cingular can
arrange international roaming.
Electricity
FortisTCI supplies electricity at a frequency of 60HZ,
70 www.timespub.tc

and either single phase or three phase at one of three
standard voltages for residential or commercial service.
FortisTCI continues to invest in a robust and resilient grid
to ensure the highest level of reliability to customers. The
company is integrating renewable energy into its grid and
provides options for customers to participate in two solar
energy programs.
Departure tax
US $35. It is typically included in your airline ticket cost.
Courier service
Delivery service is provided by FedEx, with offices on
Providenciales and Grand Turk, and DHL. UPS service is
limited to incoming delivery.
Postal service
The Post Office and Philatelic Bureau in Providenciales are
located downtown on Airport Road. In Grand Turk, the
Post Office and Philatelic Bureau are on Church Folly. The
Islands are known for their colorful stamp issues.
Media
Multi-channel satellite television is received from the U.S.
and Canada and transmitted via cable or Internet. Local
station WIV-TV broadcasts on Channel 4 and Island EyeTV
on Channel 5. There are a number of local radio stations,
magazines and newspapers.
Medical services
There are no endemic tropical diseases in TCI. There are
large, modern hospitals on Grand Turk and Providenciales.
Both hospitals offer a full range of services including:
24/7 emergency room, operating theaters, diagnostic
imaging, maternity suites, dialysis suites, blood bank,
physiotherapy and dentistry.
In addition, several general practitioners operate in
the country, and there is a recompression chamber, along
with a number of private pharmacies.
Immigration
A resident’s permit is required to live in the Islands. A
work permit and business license are also required to
work and/or establish a business. These are generally
granted to those offering skills, experience and qualifications
not widely available on the Islands. Priority is given
to enterprises that will provide employment and training
for Turks & Caicos Islanders.
SEE
THE
DIFFERENCE
OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC
Ophthalmologist Dr. Sebastian Guzman is now available
for consultation in the Turks & Caicos Islands.
Dr. Guzman and his team are a group of doctors
representing three generations of ophthalmologists.
They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye
diseases and those linked to the throat, nose, and
ears. At MD OJOS, we have our own equipment,
with all the advantages of a private clinic. We offer
a fast, complete, and comprehensive response to our
patients. We are trained in the application of the
latest technological advances for the correction of
different visual dysfunctions.
NOW OPEN IN REGENT VILLAGE
CALL 809 880 2020
WWW.OJOS.COM.DO
Times of the Islands Spring 2024 71

Government/Legal system
TCI is a British Crown colony. There is a Queen-appointed
governor HE Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam. She presides
over an executive council formed by the elected local government.
Hon. Charles Washington Misick is the country’s
premier, leading a majority Progressive National Party
(PNP) House of Assembly.
The legal system is based on English Common Law
and administered by a resident Chief Justice, Chief
Magistrate, and Deputy Magistrates. Judges of the Court
of Appeal visit the Islands twice a year and there is a final
Right of Appeal to Her Majesty’s Privy Council in London.
Taxes
There are currently no direct taxes on either income
or capital for individuals or companies. There are no
exchange controls. Indirect taxation comprises customs
duties and fees, stamp duty, taxes on accommodations,
restaurants, vehicle rentals, other services and gasoline,
as well as business license fees and departure taxes.
Economy
Historically, TCI’s economy relied on the export of salt.
Currently, tourism, the offshore finance industry and fishing
generate the most private sector income. The Islands’
main exports are lobster and conch. Practically all consumer
goods and foodstuffs are imported.
The Turks & Caicos Islands are recognised as an
important offshore financial centre, offering services
such as company formation, offshore insurance, banking,
trusts, limited partnerships and limited life companies.
The Financial Services Commission regulates the industry
and spearheads the development of offshore legislation.
People
Citizens of the Turks & Caicos Islands are termed
“Belongers” and are primarily descendants of African
slaves who were brought to the Islands to work in the
salt ponds and cotton plantations. The country’s large
expatriate population includes Canadians, Americans,
Brits and Europeans, along with Haitians, Jamaicans,
Dominicans, Bahamians, Indians and Filipinos.
Churches
Churches are the center of community life and there
are many faiths represented in the Islands including:
Adventist, Anglican, Assembly of God, Baha’i, Baptist,
Catholic, Church of God, Episcopal, Jehovah’s Witnesses,
Methodist and Pentecostal. Visitors are always welcome.
Pets
Incoming pets must have an import permit, veterinary
health certificate, vaccination certificate and lab test
results submitted at port of entry to obtain clearance
from the TCI Department of Agriculture.
National symbols
The National Bird is the Brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis).
The National Plant is Island heather (Limonium
bahamense) found nowhere else in the world. The
National Tree is the Caribbean pine (Pinus caribaea var.
bahamensis). The National Costume consists of white cotton
dresses tied at the waist for women and simple shirts
and loose pants for men, with straw hats. Colors representing
the various islands are displayed on the sleeves,
sashes and hat bands. The National Song is “This Land
of Ours” by the late Rev. E.C. Howell. Peas and Hominy
72 www.timespub.tc

(Grits) with Dry Conch is revered as symbolic island fare.
Going green
TCI Waste Disposal Services currently offers recycling
services through weekly collection of recyclable aluminum,
glass and plastic. Single-use plastic bags have been
banned country-wide as of May 1, 2019. There is also a
ban on importation of plastic straws and some polystyrene
products, including cups and plates.
Recreation
Sporting activities are centered around the water. Visitors
can choose from deep-sea, reef or bonefishing, sailing,
glass-bottom boat and semi-sub excursions, windsurfing,
waterskiing, parasailing, sea kayaking, snorkelling, scuba
diving, snuba, kiteboarding, stand up paddleboarding,
mermaid encounters and beachcombing. Pristine reefs,
abundant marine life and excellent visibility make TCI
a world-class diving destination. Whale and dolphin
encounters are possible, especially during the winter/
spring months.
Tennis and golf—there is an 18 hole championship
course on Providenciales—are also popular.
The Islands are an ecotourist’s paradise. Visitors can
enjoy unspoilt wilderness and native flora and fauna in
subscription form
TIMES
OF THE
ISLANDS
SAMPLING THE SOUL OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS
One year subscription
$28 U.S. addresses/$32 non-U.S. addresses
33 national parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries and areas
of historical interest. The National Trust provides trail
guides to several hiking trails, as well as guided tours of
major historical sites. Birdwatching is superb, and there
is a guided trail on Grand Turk.
There is an excellent national museum on Grand
Turk, with an auxillary branch on Providenciales that
includes the Caicos Heritage House. A scheduled ferry
and a selection of tour operators make it easy to take day
trips to the outer islands.
Other land-based activities include bicycling, horseback
riding and football (soccer). Personal trainers are
available to motivate you, working out of several fitness
centres. You will also find a variety of spa and body treatment
services.
Nightlife includes local bands playing island music
at bars and restaurants and some nightclubs. There are
two casinos on Providenciales, along with many electronic
gaming parlours. Stargazing is extraordinary!
Shoppers will find paintings, T-shirts, sports and
beachwear and locally made handicrafts, including straw
work, conch crafts and beach jewellery. Duty free outlets
sell liquor, jewellery, watches, perfume, leather goods,
crystal, china, cameras, electronics, brand-name clothing
and accessories, along with Cuban cigars. a
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Times of the Islands Spring 2024 73

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