Today in History: October 1

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – On this day in Bahamian history, we take a moment to honor Bahamian-born actress Estelle Rolle-Evans.

Born in Rolle Town on October 1, 1906, Estelle Evans made her mark in Hollywood during the 20th century. She was best known for her roles in films like The Quiet One, To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Learning Tree, the latter earning her an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture.

Estelle was part of a talented family, alongside her famous sisters Rosanna Carter and Esther Rolle. She married Walter Evans and passed away in New York City on July 20, 1985.

The First Seaplane Landing in Nassau Harbour

Also, on this day in 1928, Nassau Harbour witnessed a groundbreaking moment as the first seaplane touched down. The historic landing marked the beginning of Pan American Airways’ service to The Bahamas, the first airline to do so.

By January 1929, Pan Am’s 8-passenger Sikorsky S-38 amphibian started regular flights between Miami and Nassau, eventually being replaced by the 20-seat Commodore Clipper. Later that year, Pan Am secured a contract to deliver U.S. mail to The Bahamas, with the first mail flight happening on January 2, 1929.

Hurricane Joaquin’s Devastation

Fast forward to October 2015, when Hurricane Joaquin wreaked havoc across The Bahamas. The storm formed on September 28 and quickly intensified, making landfall on Samana Cay as a Category 4 hurricane on October 1.

Other islands in the Central and Southeast Bahamas—including San Salvador, Rum Cay, Long Island, Cat Island, Crooked Island, and Acklins—were also impacted. Joaquin caused widespread damage to homes and businesses and, tragically, led to the sinking of the SS El Faro, claiming the lives of all 33 crew members.