The Exumas is comprised of 3,500 locals who dominantly live on the main islands, Great Exuma and Little Exuma. The residents are largely responsible for the commerce and tourism of the island, and usually make their livelihood through the tourism industry. Residents of the Exumas are known to have philanthropic and hospitable nature and enjoy the coming and going of vacationers. Many of these 3,500 locals can date their ancestry back to the 1700’s. Upon the enslaving of residents in the 1500, it was not until 1780, that the first settlers arrived. Historically, it is believed that pirates used the cays and coves of the Exumas.

Rolle Town

When visiting Rolle Town, you are entering a part of the island that holds much history. John Rolle was the first settler in Exuma and freed his slaves in the 1700. This area is a small village comprised of 500 residents who all hold the surname of Rolle. These local residents make their livelihood through the harvesting of fruits and vegetables.

Historical Sites

Hermitage Tombs
Post the American War of Independence, the Ferguson family from Carolina settled in a house in Hermitage. At this historic site you will find the standing of 4 tombs, three of which belong to George Butler, Henderson Ferguson, and Constance McDonald. The fourth tomb is believed to be their slave's resting spot.

Peace & Plenty Club
In 1783, Peace & Plenty was an English trading ship that sailed to Exuma after the American Revolution. Lord Denny Rolle was a passenger on this ship. Presently the Peace & Plenty club is a resort built by Lord Denny Rolle’s grandson.

St. Andrews Anglican Church
Built in 1802, St. Andrews is the representative church for the four other churches on the island. With its white and blue motif, it overlooks both Lake Victoria and Elizabeth Harbor.

The Hermitage
This is the original site of Exumas cotton plantation excursions. It was built in 1700’s by the Kelsall Family.