For well over a century, Ye Olde Gaol has stood quietly in the heart of New Plymouth, watching Green Turtle Cay change around it.
One of the island’s oldest surviving buildings, the historic structure has been given new life through a community-led restoration that honours its past while serving the needs of today’s residents and visitors.
Originally constructed in the 1880s, the then-two-story building served as the seat of government for North Abaco, housing the commissioner’s office, the police station and, of course, the town jail (or “gaol”, in traditional English spelling.)
Then came the devastating hurricane of September 1932 — the first recorded Category 5 hurricane to strike The Bahamas.
The storm ripped off the upper floor of the government building, leaving behind only the sturdy lower-level, which included the gaol.
Earlier this year, instead of allowing the building to continue aging quietly, a dedicated group of local residents and second homeowners decided to restore it.
Organized by a team of community members including Roddie Sawyer, Elvardo Butler and second homeowner Christi Sherouse, the project has transformed the property into both a heritage attraction and a valuable community resource.
“Roddie had the idea,” Christi says, “and we needed funds to make it happen.”
The team held a number of fundraisers, including a wine tasting, where Christi says people not only bought tickets but also made generous donations to the project.
She says the restoration has truly become a community effort. Fundraisers, donated materials, local businesses, artists and volunteers have all contributed.
Artist Randy Curry created a new sign for the property, while local schoolchildren have designed historical posters to be displayed around town. And the construction teams have generously donated their labour throughout the project.
The restoration has carefully preserved the character of the historic building while adding engaging displays that help visitors imagine its former role.
One room has been staged as a courtroom, while another recreates a jail cell, offering a glimpse into life when the gaol was still in use. (The last prisoner held there was in the 1980s)
Just as importantly, one of the property’s outbuildings has been converted into attractive public restrooms — a long-needed amenity in the settlement since the previous ones were destroyed during Dorian.
Restrooms are open from 9am-4pm, and longer hours during public events.
Solar-powered lighting now illuminates the complex, with additional battery storage helping keep the lights on during night-time community events.
What has the response been? In a word, says Christi, “Wonderful!” Visitors stop to explore the exhibits, she says, take photographs and learn about one of Green Turtle Cay’s most enduring landmarks.
But, the work isn’t finished. The group plans to convert the third room of the main gaol into a small historic preservation site showcasing Green Turtle Cay’s rich history through photographs, artifacts and stories of past industries on the island, including fishing, sponging, pineapple farming, sisal production and sharking.
As Roddie, Elvardo, Christi and the entire restoration team continues working on the gaol project, they’re asking for the public’s help in a few ways.
Cash donations are still needed, since the group is currently responsible for the ongoing cleaning and maintenance of the public restrooms. In addition, historic photographs, stories and old relics are needed for the upcoming historic preservation room. To contribute any of the above, please contact Christi at sherousc@bellsouth.net.
Unless otherwise noted, all images courtesy of Christi Sherouse.
