Happy Hour with the Historian | The Key West/Bahamas Connection | An Intersection of Food, Culture,

The Key West Art & Historical Society is excited to offer a series of fun historical lectures entitled ‘Happy Hour with the Historian’.

Historian: Cori Convertito Ph.D.
Topic: The Key West/Bahamas Connection | An Intersection of History, Food, Culture, and Architecture

While the Bahamas and Key West are geographically close, their connection runs much deeper than distance. The earliest settlers of Key West were predominantly of Bahamian ancestry, especially from Abaco, Harbour Island, and Eleuthera. These skilled individuals—fishermen, shipbuilders, wreckers, and spongers—came seeking better economic opportunities. Many even brought their entire homes with them, reestablishing their lives on the island.

As more Bahamians arrived, Key West began to resemble an extension of the Bahamas. The island's architecture, food, industries, music, and community life all bear the clear imprint of Bahamian culture. Today, these influences remain central to Key West’s unique identity.

This presentation will explore both the historical and ongoing connections between the Bahamas and Key West, illustrating how deeply Bahamian roots are woven into the fabric of the island’s culture and community.

This event is sponsored in part by Comedy Key West.

You may also like the following events from Key West Art & Historical Society:

• Next month, 18th July, 05:00 pm, Visions of Florida: The Photographic Art of Clyde Butcher Exhibition Opening in Key West
• This December, 12th December, 05:00 pm, Custom House Holiday Concert & Bazaar in Key West

Also check out other Arts events in Key West, Comedy events in Key West.