Little Nassau: The Bahamas’ Hidden Legacy on Florida’s Coast

When we think of Florida’s history, we often focus on Spanish explorers, the rise of Miami, or the tourist boom. But there’s a lesser-known story—one that ties Florida closely to the Bahamas. That story is the tale of Little Nassau, an informal name given to certain coastal areas in Florida that were deeply influenced by Bahamian settlers and seafarers. Though not an official town or city, Little Nassau represents a fascinating piece of history, full of maritime adventures, smuggling operations, and cultural exchanges that have left a lasting impact on the Sunshine State.

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A Maritime Connection That Runs Deep

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Bahamians—particularly from Nassau—played a crucial role in shaping Florida’s coastal communities. They were expert fishermen, wreckers (salvagers of shipwrecks), and traders, and their presence was especially strong in the Florida Keys and Miami. Many early Bahamian settlers maintained close ties with their home islands, creating a cultural bridge that would influence Florida’s development for generations.

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Bahamian Influence in Florida

• Wrecking and Maritime Trade – In the early 1800s, Bahamians became some of the most prominent wreckers along Florida’s coast. Key West, in particular, emerged as a major wrecking hub, with many of its early settlers hailing from the Bahamas. The maritime economy between Florida and the Bahamas was deeply intertwined, with goods, people, and traditions flowing freely between the two regions.

• Prohibition and Smuggling – During Prohibition (1920–1933), when alcohol was outlawed in the U.S., the Bahamas—especially Nassau—became a hotspot for rum-running. Smugglers transported liquor from Nassau to the Florida coast, with Miami and smaller coastal communities playing key roles in this underground trade. Some of these areas, informally dubbed "Little Nassau," became known for their Bahamian connections, as rum-runners navigated familiar waters to keep the liquor flowing.

• Bahamian Settlement and Cultural Legacy – Bahamians were among the earliest Caribbean immigrants to Florida. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they were deeply involved in industries such as fishing, farming, and construction. Neighborhoods with high Bahamian populations, like parts of Miami and Key West, were sometimes referred to as “Little Nassau” because of their strong cultural ties to the islands. Today, places like Coconut Grove still celebrate Bahamian heritage through festivals, music, and community traditions.

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A Changing Landscape and Enduring Influence

As Florida grew into an urbanized and tourist-driven state, the direct association with “Little Nassau” faded. However, the Bahamian influence is still visible in the region’s culture, food, and traditions. From the conch fritters served in South Florida to the Junkanoo festivals that celebrate Bahamian heritage, the impact of those early settlers remains strong.

Though it may not appear on any official map, Little Nassau is a symbol of the deep historical ties between Florida and the Bahamas. From maritime industries to smuggling networks and immigration waves, the connection between Nassau and Florida’s coast played a crucial role in shaping the region’s identity. Today, the legacy of those Bahamian settlers lives on, reminding us of a shared history that helped shape both places into what they are today.