The enigmatic Navy Island

Off the coast of Port Antonio in Portland is Navy Island, a small but historically rich gem that has witnessed significant chapters of Jamaican history. Its journey from a strategic military outpost to a lush, uninhabited paradise is a testament to the island’s enduring allure and changing roles through the ages.

Navy Island’s storied past began under the name Lynch Island, named after Sir Thomas Lynch, the governor of Jamaica. Its strategic location made it a valuable asset, especially during World War II when the British Navy transformed it into a battery to protect the eastern port. The island’s name was then aptly changed to Navy Island, marking its military significance.

A pivotal moment in the island’s history came in 1942 when the charismatic American film actor Errol Flynn was marooned in Port Antonio. Captivated by the area’s natural beauty, Flynn purchased Navy Island. Though he never built a house on the island, he famously hosted extravagant parties and planted numerous palm trees, many of which still stand today, swaying in the Caribbean breeze.

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

The island’s narrative took another turn when the Eller couple arrived from California. They established the first private resort, the Admiralty, hoping to capitalise on the island’s pristine charm. However, their venture was short-lived due to a labour dispute that forced them to leave. Today, laws ensure public access to the island’s beaches and amenities, preserving its natural beauty for all to enjoy.

Despite its tumultuous history, Navy Island remains uninhabited and is now under the Jamaican Government. Its lush greenery and serene beaches continue to draw visitors, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into its rich past.

Navy Island’s evolution mirrors the broader narrative of change and resilience. From a strategic military outpost to a playground for the Hollywood elite, and now a public treasure, the island’s journey is a reflection of how places, like people, undergo transformations.

As we reflect on Navy Island’s past, we are reminded of the profound truth: things change, people change, lives change, and we all change. Embracing change allows us to appreciate the beauty of the present and the possibilities of the future. Navy Island stands as a beacon of history and hope, inviting us to honour our past while looking forward to new beginnings.

References:

• Visit Jamaica - Navy Island

• Errol Flynn’s Navy Island

• Jamaica Information Service - Navy Island

Contributed by Dr Lorenzo Gordon, a diabetologist, internal medicine consultant, biochemist, and a history and heritage enthusiast. Send feedback to inspiring876@gmail.com.