National

Today in History: August 24

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A devastating hurricane and funeral services for a fallen politician. See what events took place on this day in history.

Published

1 year ago

August 24, 2023

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – On this day in Bahamian history – In 2011, Hurricane Irene made landfall in The Bahamas as a Category 3 hurricane. Top sustained wind speeds were recorded at 115 mph.

No deaths were reported as a result of the hurricane but damage to homes and property was estimated at $40 million.

The greatest devastation was caused in the southeastern Bahamas, particuarly in the islands of Cat Island, Acklins and Crooked Island.

Then a year later in 2012 – funeral services were held for former FNM Chairman and Cabinet Minister Charles Maynard who died while campaigning in the North Abaco by-election more than a week prior. Family and political colleagues remembered his life.

And finally in 2018 just two weeks after he was officially sworn in as the country’s chief justice, Stephen Isaacs passed away at Doctor’s Hospital.
He was 63-years-old.

At his swearing in at government house on August 10th he was hailed by then Attorney General Carl Bethel as the perfect man for the job.

Cabinet office released a statement lauding isaacs as the epitome of the highest standards of conduct that can be found in a judicial officer.