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Map of Norman Island in the BVI

Map_Norman_Island Map of Norman Island in the BVI
I am a history buff and just love to explore places steeped in history. Norman Island has history, intrigue, adventure, pirate treasure ... the whole nine yards!

Many place names on Norman Island are historically significant to actual events that unfolded in the British Virgin Islands in and around 1750. The names of some of the bays tell part of a larger story concerning those events. You'll have to read about the Treasure found on Norman Island to discover what connection a fictional character such as Long John Silver might possibly have to do with anything. :)

Moorings Available - Maintained by Norman Island Staff:
(74 to 76) in the Bight
(4) in Kelly's Cove
(5) in Soldier Bay
(4 overnight) in Privateer Bay
(4 daytime and one private mooring) in Privateer Bay at The Caves

Origin of Name:

I keep seeing references made to some fellow named "Captain Norman" (no first name) who was supposedly hung for piracy in Puerto Rico by the Spanish Coast Guard. However, I have not been able to find any information anywhere to back up this claim, nor have I been able to find a single reference to even one pirate, privateer or freebooter (who operated anywhere in the Caribbean) with the surname of either Norman or Normands.

According to old maps I have found, the original name of the island was "Normands Island ", with no apostrophe. How or when the name was changed is unclear. But as of February, 1775, it is certain that it was named Normands Island.

Further investigation needs to be done to discover how the island really came to be named and then renamed.

It is well known that the "Normands" (from the northern parts of France) who came to be known as Normans were very much into piracy ... but that was during an earlier period of time. However, the French had very a strong presence in the Caribbean in the 17th and 18th century. They laid claim to Hispaniola, Martinique, Guadeloupe and St. Maarten, among others. It is entirely possible that a "Norman" (person of French origin) laid claim to Norman Island.

This is total speculation on my part, but as I can find no information regarding the elusive "captain Norman", I can think of no better explanation.

Facts & Stats about Norman Island:

Description: Privately owned by Dr. Henry and Gloria Jarecki.
Population: 2 full time staff live on the island.
Main Town or Village: None
Maximum elevation: Spy Glass Hill
Land Mass: Approximately 600 acres
Main industry: Tourism



Last updated: Jan 5th 2015
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