August 20th, 2012 by Piper Smith
The first settlements of shipwreckers in the Bahamas began in 1648 with a group of religious refugees from Bermuda. They called themselves the “Eleutheran Adventures” and established their own colony on Eleutheria. Their document of government termed the “Articles and Orders,” included regulations for wrecking. These rules stated that any salvaged goods would be delivered to designated appraisers for the common defense of their colony. These wreckers were apparently an aggressive and dangerous group of salvagers. The Spanish even considered and called them pirates! Learn more about SHIPWRECKS IN THE CARIBBEAN by visiting our KEY WEST MUSEUM.
Picture caption: The Eleutheran Pirates!
