North Eleuthera – birthplace of the Bahamas in 1648
North Eleuthera is often called the birthplace of the Bahamas. In 1648 a group of English Puritans, the Eleutheran Adventurers led by Captain William Sayles, sailed from Bermuda in search of religious freedom and founded a settlement here; the name Eleuthera comes from the Greek word for “free”. After being shipwrecked, they found shelter in Preacher's Cave, where they also held their services – a stone plaque at the entrance still recalls this. Earlier the island had been home to the peaceful Lucayan people, who were enslaved by the Spanish in the 16th century. Today North Eleuthera is known for pink sand beaches and as a gateway to nearby cays. Share your own North Eleuthera stories with the community!