South Caicos history

The history of the settlement of South Caicos, often referred to by locals as "The Big South", is inextricably linked to the sea and the natural resources of the archipelago. The first inhabitants of these lands were the Lucayan Indians, who left behind archaeological evidence in the form of pottery and tools. However, the modern settlement began to take shape in the 18th century with the arrival of colonists who recognised the potential of the local salt pans.

The key factors that determined the region's fate and transformed it into an economic centre were:

• Salt Production: The shallow lakes were ideal for evaporating sea salt. In the 19th century, this industry flourished to such an extent that salt became the main export commodity, and the island became the most important supplier of "white gold" in the region.
• Geographical Location: The natural deep-water harbour of Cockburn Harbour provided a safe anchorage for large vessels, which distinguished the island from its neighbours and facilitated the development of maritime trade.

During the heyday of the salt industry, the Turks and Caicos Islands attracted many merchants, and South Caicos effectively served as the commercial capital. The early culture of the island was strongly influenced by Bermudian settlers, whose traditions can still be traced in the architectural style of the old stone buildings and warehouses preserved in the harbour area.

Major Historical Milestones

• Around 700 AD – The island is settled by the Lucayan Indians, the first known inhabitants of the archipelago, who engaged in fishing.
• Early 18th Century – Bermudian colonists begin to develop natural salt pans for large-scale sea salt extraction.
• 1799 – The island, along with the rest of the archipelago, is officially annexed to the colony of the Bahamas.
• 1848 – Residents achieve political separation, and the Turks and Caicos Islands become a separate colony under the governance of Jamaica.
• Late 19th Century – South Caicos reaches the peak of its economic prosperity, producing more salt than any other island in the group.
• 1964 – The traditional salt industry is finally shut down due to economic inefficiency.
• 1966 – Queen Elizabeth II visits the island during her tour of the Caribbean.
• 1967 – The famous "Big South" Regatta is held for the first time, timed to coincide with the anniversary of the Royal visit.
• 1970s – The island's economy reorients towards seafood exports, becoming the country's fishing centre.
• 2008 – Hurricane Ike causes serious damage to infrastructure and local homes.
• 2017 – The island suffers the impact of the powerful Hurricane Irma, after which a large-scale recovery programme begins.
• Present Time – The region is actively developing ecotourism and restoring the historical appearance of the harbour.

The development history of South Caicos is a journey from a major industrial salt mining centre to an exclusive tourist destination. The economic and urban transformations of the town are closely intertwined with the fate of the entire Turks and Caicos Islands archipelago, reflecting its adaptation to changing global markets.

Key stages that shaped the modern appearance and economy of the town:

• Engineering Development of Salt Pans. The creation of a complex system of dams, sluices, and canals in the 18th–19th centuries not only defined the region's specialisation but also forever changed its landscape. These hydraulic structures became the urban foundation around which the settlement grew.
• Construction of Cockburn Harbour. The development of the natural deep-water harbour turned the town into the region's main maritime gateway in the 19th century. The port became a centre of international trade, stimulating the development of warehouse infrastructure and the influx of capital.
• Architectural Boom of the "Salt Era". Economic prosperity contributed to the active development of the town with buildings in the Bermudian style. Stone mansions with verandas and public buildings from that era today constitute the historical core of the town and are its main cultural heritage.
• Economic Transformation of the 1960s. The collapse of the salt industry forced the town to radically change its development vector. The closure of the salt fields led to the repurposing of port facilities and the search for new sources of income.
• Creation of the Fishing Industry. In the 1970s, the town successfully reoriented itself towards the harvesting and export of seafood. The construction of processing plants cemented its status as the "fishing capital" and ensured economic stability for decades.
• Development of Luxury Tourism. The modern stage of development is characterised by the construction of premium resorts (for example, in the Sailrock area) and the modernisation of the airport. The new urban planning approach focuses on low-density development and environmental preservation, attracting investment to the region.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of the island of South Caicos represents a unique chronicle of its industrial past. Unlike modern tourist centres, the authentic atmosphere of the colonial era has been preserved here. The urban structure historically formed around the natural harbour of Cockburn Harbour and the salt lakes, which determined the functional zoning of the settlement: the port zone, industrial areas, and residential quarters are closely interwoven.

Styles and Eras

The island's development clearly reflects two main periods of its history, each characterised by its own approach to architecture:

• Colonial Bermudian Style (18th–19th centuries). The heyday of the salt industry led to the appearance of buildings constructed according to the traditions of settlers from Bermuda. This style is characterised by thick walls made of local limestone, capable of withstanding hurricanes, and wooden kitchens located in separate annexes. Special attention was paid to roofs designed to collect rainwater.
• Modern Eco-Minimalism (21st century). A new wave of development associated with tourism has brought a style to the island that delicately integrates into the landscape. Low-rise villas and resort complexes use natural materials, panoramic glazing, and open terraces, blurring the boundaries between the interior and nature.

Iconic Buildings and Historical Heritage

The main architectural ensemble is concentrated in the island's capital, where one can see monuments that shaped its historical appearance:

• The Commissioner’s House. A majestic 18th-century building located on an elevation. It served as a residence for administrators and guests of the island. Its strict forms and massive stone walls are a striking example of British colonial architecture adapted to the tropics.
• Old Salt Warehouses. Ruins and restored warehouse buildings have been preserved along the waterfront and in the area of the salt pans. These utilitarian structures made of rough stone and weathered wood create a unique atmosphere, reminding us of the times when the Turks and Caicos Islands were a world leader in salt production.
• Residential Buildings of Cockburn Harbour. The narrow streets of the town are adorned with historical houses featuring verandas and decorative wooden elements, demonstrating the craftsmanship of local carpenters of past centuries.

The history and culture of the island of South Caicos are inextricably linked with the names of people who contributed to its development or left a bright mark on the chronicle of the Turks and Caicos Islands archipelago. From colonial administrators to modern politicians and educators, these individuals shaped the unique character of "The Big South".

• Sir Francis Cockburn — Governor of the Bahamas.
  A British administrator who visited the island on an official visit in 1840. This event had significant toponymic importance: the main deep-water harbour and the island's settlement were named in his honour — Cockburn Harbour, which cemented the town's status as a key port of the archipelago.
• Christian D. Powell — School Principal and Educator.
  A legendary figure in the education system of the early 20th century. He headed the island's public school and was known for strict discipline and high academic standards, raising a whole generation of literate and responsible islanders.
• Marjorie Basden — Distinguished Educator.
  An outstanding teacher who dedicated her life to the enlightenment of local youth. In recognition of her many years of service and influence on the development of society, the only high school on the island was named in her honour (Marjorie Basden High School).
• Queen Elizabeth II — Queen of the United Kingdom.
  The monarch whose official visit to the island in 1966 became one of the most memorable events in its history. In honour of her arrival, the first sailing race was organised, which grew into an annual tradition — the famous South Caicos Regatta.
• Iris Stubbs — Teacher and Community Activist.
  A renowned activist and educator who played a key role in primary education and social projects on the island. Her legacy is immortalised in the name of the primary school (Iris Stubbs Primary School), highlighting the importance of her contribution to the community's future.
• Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson — Politician, first female Premier of Turks and Caicos.
  Although her political career spans the entire country, she is closely connected to the island as a graduate of the Marjorie Basden High School. Her success serves as an inspiring example for local students, demonstrating the possibilities of achieving the highest government offices.