The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL: November sixteenth, finding history on the island of Nevis.

Lying in the Leewards of the Eastern Caribbean, Nevis is a 36-square- mile island consisting of a single volcanic peak and several low hills that slope in a lush jungle to the sea. Fringed by sandy beaches, the nearly circular island is sectioned into five, wedge-shaped parishes, each named after its Anglican church. Its lower elevations are a series of small agricultural villages. Charlestown is its capital and only port.

Columbus landed on Nevis in 1493; English settlers arrived 150 years later. Burning off the native vegetation, they established sugar plantations, imported African slaves to work them. Building themselves great fortunes and magnificent manor homes, its British planters lived such lavish lives, Nevis became known as "Queen of the Caribees."

That chapter in history ended in 1833, when Britain abolished slavery. The sugar economy slowly collapsed, the white population moved away, and plantations melted back into the jungle.

Only recently has Nevis reversed its fortunes, fueled by its growing reputation for fine beaches, good food and low-key charm. But it's not backward, and boasts one of the world's highest rates of literacy. As engaging as its ambiance, as fascinating as its flora and fauna is the hidden history of Nevis. The rusted relics and crumbled mansions of its sugar days still lay where they fell. Adventurous visitors can venture up over-grown paths and discover buried treasures, such as the ruined estate where Alexander Hamilton was born. Delightfully devoid of tacky, modern developments Nevis remains the sort place where these personal exploration are possible, private and extremely pleasurable.

For Nevis information check out www.nevis1.com or www.travelfacts.com/tfacts/htm/stk/stkdest.html

For Nevis history walks call Eco- tours Nevis at 809-469-2091

 

Back to November 2002 Main

Look through the list of fascinating places and off-beat features we’ve covered. Search text versions of past episodes and articles in our archives.