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The island was inhabited by the peaceful Arawak indians before the fierce Caribes came from South America. The name of the island is derived from the Caribe meaning “land surrounded by reefs.” Originally settled by the French, whose influence is still evidenced in some names and local patois "Créole". In 1720, the famous pirate Bartholomew Roberts captured a French ship near Carriacou and commandeered it, renaming it the Royal Fortune.

Carriacou was part of the French colonies in 1762. It became British from 1763 to 1779 and from 1783 to 1974 when it became independant as part of the tri-island state of Grenada. The population on Carriacou is mainly of African slave descendents with a bit of Scottish influence who brought their boat building expertise. Carriacouans are renown for their sea faring skills and many locally made vessels are still in use today from small fishing sloops to large trading schooners.

Geography

Carriacou is about 7 miles in length and 2 miles across. Volcanic actions created an interesting topography mainly of wooded hills, rising up dramatically in places, (the highest being 956 feet up), and creating an irregular coastline. Coral reefs surrounding the island provide the beautiful sandy beaches. The main town and port of entry is Hillsborough and there are several smaller villages.

Status

Carriacou is part of the State of Grenada, independant since 7th February 1974 and memeber of the Commonwealth with Saint George on Grenada as capital.

Language: English and sometimes Creole

Currency: Caribbean Dollar EC$ (1 US$ = 2.7 EC$), US$ accepted.

Population: 6,000

Web sites

• www.carriacoupetitemartinique.com
• www.carriacoucottages.com