Wanted: Old Abaco Pics & Documents

I’ve always been interested in the history of Green Turtle Cay, but in the two-and-a-half years since I began this blog, my fascination has grown exponentially. Turns out our sleepy little cay has a surprisingly rich and intriguing past! I’ve discovered so many interesting characters and stories that I can’t wait to share.

Over the past year, I’ve been working with artist and historian (and my cousin) Alton Lowe to gather Green Turtle Cay stories and photographs for a book about the history of the cay. We want to create a piece that will be of interest to residents, visitors and (perhaps most importantly) future generations of Abaconians.

As part of our research, we’re seeking old photographs taken in Green Turtle Cay and other parts of Abaco. There’s a good chance that some of this blog’s readers (or your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) have wonderful photographs and documents stashed away in albums and attics, and we hope you’ll consider sharing them.

Ideally, we’re looking for original (i.e., not widely published previously) images of Abaconians at work, play or worship, of their homes, towns and natural surroundings, or of Abaco nature and wildlife. Old letters, diaries, family histories, land deeds and other similar documents would also be appreciated.

A couple of requests:

• Please scan or photograph images or documents as clearly as you can, at the highest possible resolution, and email them to  AbacoHistory@yahoo.com.
• Even if items are damaged, creased or have age spots, do send them. I may be able to restore them electronically — and if I do, I’ll provide a copy of the restored image as a thank you!
• If it’s easier, you can drop items by the Albert Lowe Museum marked to my attention or Alton’s. I’ll photograph or copy them when I’m next in town (hopefully during February.) If you include your name/contact information (please don’t write on the backs of photos), I’ll ensure items are returned to you undamaged.
• Please provide as much detail as possible about items — who the people are, where and when the document was written or photo taken. If you don’t know these things, let me know that, too. We may be able to help put names to unknown faces.
• Though I’m thrilled to receive historic submissions at any time, photos and documents must be received no later than the end of February to be considered for inclusion in the book.
• Please share this page with anyone else who may have photos or documents of interest they might like to share.