Today in History: July 18

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – On this day in Bahamian history – In 1802 Saint Matthew’s Anglican Church officially opened.  

 It’s the oldest standing church in The Bahamas, built after the arrival of the loyalists.  

The church’s purpose was to accommodate persons living in the eastern part of the town of Nassau.  

It’s steeple and clock both erected in 1816 and for many years was the only reliable source of time on the island. 

Then in 1960, Robert Stapledon became Governor of The Bahamas succeeding Oswald Raynor Arthur. 

During his time as Governor, The Bahamas received its first constitution and was granted self-internal rule on January 7th, 1964, which was celebrated as Constitution Day. 

In his honor, Stapledon Gardens subdivision and Stapledon School on New Providence were named after him. 

He served from 1960 – 1964. 

Then in 2017, the 6th Commonwealth Youth Games were officially opened in Nassau by then Prime Minister Hubert Minnis. 

It was the first time in more than 50 years that a Commonwealth Games event had been held in CARICOM. 

The games were held from 19th July to 23rd July and featured eight disciplines and up to 1300 athletes.  

The games were originally started in 2000, but this sixth installment ended up being the largest Commonwealth Youth Games ever held, and the largest sporting event hosted by The Bahamas at the time. 

Then in 2022, there were two strikes on the same day, greatly impacting Bahamian transportation. The first was an airport sick out that affected more than 17 airports across The Bahamas.  

Hundreds of airport employees also staged a sick-out which impacted operations at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.  

The sick-out involved Bahamas Public Services Union members and stemmed from several issues including an outstanding industrial agreement and money owed. 

Finally, also the same day in 2022, an estimated 75% of bus drivers went on strike.  

To get the attention of the government, The Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers’ Union held a series of peaceful demonstrations across the island, after the group said it was not satisfied with a relief package promised by the housing and transport minister.