Today in History: October 28

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Proprietary Government Ends in The Bahamas
On this day in Bahamian history in 1717, the proprietary government of The Bahamas officially ended as the Lords Proprietors, responsible for governing since 1670, resigned control to the British Crown.

This marked the end of an era dominated by private rule, complicated by pirate control in Nassau.

The establishment of Woodes Rogers as governor in 1718 helped reclaim order.

The Life and Legacy of Robert Melville Bailey
Fast forward to 1875, Robert Melville Bailey was born in Saint John, Barbados.

A skilled tailor, social activist, teacher, and community leader, Bailey became a central figure in Nassau after relocating in 1899.

Through his advocacy, he championed educational access for Bahamians, eventually helping to establish the Government High School.

His legacy lives on with the R.M. Bailey Secondary School in New Providence, named in his honor.

Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants Joins Regional Network
In 1988, the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants joined the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Caribbean, strengthening professional ties in the region and reinforcing standards in the accounting field.

COVID-19 Curfew Adjustments Announced
On October 28, 2020, amid ongoing COVID-19 pandemic challenges, then Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis announced adjustments to the weekday curfew for New Providence and Grand Bahama.

A curfew was part of the emergency orders issued to curb the spread of the virus.