National

Hanna Homestead Chronicles Acklins’ Rich History

ACKLINS, BAHAMAS – Beneath its lush vegetation, Hanna Homestead in Portland, Acklins holds a rich history that begins with the journey of Loyalist John Hanna I.

Published

1 year ago

March 17, 2024

Kendeno Knowles

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Beneath its lush vegetation, Hanna Homestead in Portland, Acklins holds a rich history that begins with the journey of Loyalist John Hanna I who fled the United States after the American revolution, with a son – John Hanna II.

John’s life, intertwined with two wives. Nancy, who passed away before his marriage to Ann. Together, they bore a son – Robert who married Harriett Heastie.

Robert and Harriet’s union produced three sons: Francis, Robert, and Lionel. Francis was only 15 years old when his parents died. Patricia Cleare (nee Hanna) is his direct descendant. She and her husband Louis, now stewards of the homestead.

The ingenuity of those slaves immortalized in artifacts found all throughout the plantation.

That memorial gate, a symbol of reverence and remembrance. During our tour, just one of three offered on the homestead, Pat’s reflections, a continuation of stories shared by her loved ones.

As we journeyed through the gardens, we also encounterd this narrative on the life of an accomplished man named Curtis Tynes who married Martha Hanna.

More revelations await, but its an experience Pat and Louis say is best savored in person, a chance to pay homage to the past and celebrate the spirit of those who came before us in their final resting place.

Yet, there are much more to uncover. Each gravestone, she says, tells a story of triumphs, trials, and the enduring spirit of Acklins. Preserving her family’s heritage, she says, a labor of love and duty.

A peace we hope continues to follow her and Louis on their journey to educate and preserve history for future generations.