Cayman Islands / Museums

By Tim Ecott

The Cayman Islands have an interesting history which is worth getting to know. Pirates, hurricanes and the links with Britain have all had a long-lasting effect on today’s modern island nation. Much of this history can be discovered at the National Museum in George Town www.museum.ky (opposite George Town Harbour on the corner of Harbour Drive and Shedden Road). Opening hours: Mon-Fr 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sat 9 a.m – 1 p.m.

Other museums to explore on the Cayman Islands are:

The Mission House, Bodden Town, Grand Cayman - Bodden Town was the original capital of Cayman, and this beautiful house restored by the National Trust gives a fascinating insight into the struggles of the early settlers and the influence of the church in providing schooling for the local children.

Cayman Motor Museum, Northwest Point Rd., West Bay, Grand Cayman - A fantastic private collection of vintage vehicles including models from the 1900s, classic Ferraris and Rolls Royces. A highlight is the original Batmobile from the 1960’s TV series and a beautiful 1958 Buick convertible.

Cayman Brac Museum - This charming wooden building is filled with local artefacts and was the Brac’s original government administration office. Traditional basketry made with the local silver thatch palms is on display and early photographs showing the simple yet tough conditions experienced in relatively recent history.

Little Cayman Museum - A tiny slice of life as it used to be on the islands. The museum keeps irregular hours, it’s best to ask at the shop in Blossom Village – they usually know the whereabouts of the key.