Nestled along the enchanting shores of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, Green Castle is a place steeped in history and brimming with stories of resilience and community. The origins of Green Castle trace back to the late 18th century when European settlers and their enslaved laborers established a settlement on this picturesque island. Amidst the lush greenery and azure waters, the town of Green Castle emerged as a thriving hub for agriculture and fishing.
Green Castle’s history is closely intertwined with the legacy of slavery. The town was built upon the labor and hardship endured by enslaved Africans who toiled tirelessly in the fields and on the seas. Despite the harsh conditions, these resilient individuals laid the foundation for a community that would eventually rise above the shadows of oppression.
With the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in the 19th century, A portion of Mount Rattray Estate was given to those who were free, and FREETOWN was born. Formerly enslaved individuals and their descendants began shaping their own destinies, contributing to the growth of the community and the development of its unique culture.
Decades later, Zaccheus Arthur Smith secured a portion of Freetown that became known as GREEN CASTLE Eleuthera – aptly named after his imposing green house which overlooked Bay Road. He was respected by all who knew him – Justice of the Peace, Catechist of the Anglican Church and businessman – even earning himself the title ‘Governor’ from the locals. But all his efforts were washed away in 1979 when Hurricane David destroyed his beloved home, leaving behind nothing but rubble in its wake.
