St Lucia‘s Rodney Bay is home to Reduit beach and Pigeon Island National Landmark, one of the most important monuments to St Lucia’s history. We were there for a day via Seabourn Cruise line‘s Seabourn Quest and had a chance to walk around the historic site. Torn between the hilltop ruins of Fort Rodney and a panoramic view of the ocean and coastline the breath-taking photo opportunities were abundant.
Take a look at our Facebook Gallery to see for yourself.
The National Trust history of Pigeon Island is fascinating.
Pigeon Island was first occupied by the Amerindians, mainly Caribs. The island was later occupied by pirates whose leader was a Norman Captain called Francois Le Clerc. He had a wooden leg and was known to the French as Jambe de Bois. The French who owned the island in 1778 declared war on the British, who retaliated by attacking them in Saint Lucia and capturing the island. The British then built a Naval Base at Gros-Islet Bay, heavily fortifying Pigeon Island. From there they were able to monitor the French fleet in Martinique which resulted in the defeat of the French at the Battle of the Saints in 1782. Pigeon Island was therefore a key factor in the Battles between the British and the French. In 1909 a whaling station was established at Pigeon Island. Legislation to control whaling in 1952 put an end to this operation.
Pigeon Island was leased to Josset Agnes Hutchinson, an actress with the D’Oyle Carte Theatre of England in 1937. When the American established a Naval Base at Rodney Bay in 1940 she left the island. In 1947 she returned to establish a thriving yachting industry, entertaining many guests and giving the island the reputation of a paradise island. She relinquished the lease in 1970, finally retiring to England in 1976.
Pigeon Island was restored as a landmark encompassing all aspects of the rich heritage, with emphasis on the glorious period of the late eighteenth century, when the spill-over from the American War of Independence reached the Caribbean. The presentation of this island to the visitor revolves around the Battle of the Saints Theme, which is the focus of a display in the Interpretation Centre located in the restored Officers Mess original build in 1803. Adjacent to the Interpretation Center is the Pigeon Island shop where specialised souvenirs, books, prints and gift items are sold.
Pigeon Island National Landmark does more than just excitingly presented history. It is also white sands, luxuriously maintained grounds and home to a variety of tropical flora and fauna. Just minutes away from the capital city of Castries, it is perfect for a half or full day outing tailored to your specific needs – total relaxation or for the more adventurous, an exciting expedition. Whatever your preference, a camera is a must. Pigeon Island offers some of the most breathtaking photo opportunities.
One of the best parts of our day in St Lucia via Seabourn Quest is that all this is just steps away from the short tender ride from Quest to shore.
Take a look at our Facebook Gallery to see for yourself.
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