Happy Hour with the Historian: The Key West/Bahamas Connection

The Key West Art & Historical Society is excited to offer a series of fun historical lectures entitled ‘Happy Hour with the Historian’.

Historian: Cori Convertito Ph.D.
Topic: The Key West/Bahamas Connection | An Intersection of Food, Culture, and Architecture

Beyond their geographical closeness, the islands of the Bahamas and Key West have numerous commonalities. The initial settlers of Key West were largely of Bahamian ancestry, especially from the Abacos, Harbour Island, and Eleuthera. These Bahamians, already adept in shipbuilding, fishing, wrecking, and sponging, moved to Key West seeking improved economic prospects. Once it was confirmed that Key West could thrive, many Bahamians migrated to the island, sometimes bringing their entire homes with them. As a result, Key West essentially became an extension of the Bahamas, with its cuisine, architecture, industries, music, and families all closely connected to their previous lives.

This presentation intends to examine both the historical and current ties between the two locations, showcasing how much of Key West’s culture and community is deeply embedded in its Bahamian roots.

This event is sponsored in part by Comedy Key West.