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Cotton Gin Mill Ruin

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Historical site
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Cotton Gin Mill Ruin (Bahamas)

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The Cotton Gin Mill Ruin in Williams Town, Little Exuma, is a rare and precious monument of Bahamian industrial history. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Williams Town was a bustling hub of the cotton industry, pioneered by Loyalist settlers such as the Rolle family. The cotton gin was a critical technological advancement of its time, allowing for the efficient separation of seeds from the fibers of the prized Sea Island cotton before it was exported to international markets. The remaining limestone walls indicate the site of the mechanical apparatus, which was likely powered by wind or draft animals. Following the decline of cotton prices and soil depletion in the 1830s, the mill was abandoned, yet it survives as a symbol of the region's former economic dominance. Visiting this site provides a profound perspective on the labor-intensive production and the technological shifts that defined colonial Bahamian society and its connection to the global economy.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252525252628292929282726
Rain mm2921223469523548621107636

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Cotton Gin Mill Ruin is a historical site on Acklins that can be visited freely. There are no facilities on site; the ruin is an open area.
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Typical hours
As it is an open-air site, it is accessible at any time. The best time to visit is during daylight hours as there is no lighting.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. The ruin gives interesting subjects for architectural and historical shots.
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Time needed
A visit to the ruin takes about 20-30 minutes. Allow extra time for travel on the unpaved roads of Acklins.
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Combine with
The ruin can be combined with a visit to nearby Acklins beaches or the settlement of Lovely Bay. The island is also known for its salt pans.
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Getting there
Acklins is only reachable by plane or boat, and the ruin is off the main road. A rental car or local guide is recommended.
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Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and sun protection as there is no shade on site. A hat and sturdy footwear are also useful.

Geography

Coordinates
22.45000, -74.00000

Facts

  • The mill was constructed around 1790 in Williams Town.
  • It processed cotton from the extensive nearby Rolle family plantations.
  • Sea Island cotton was famous for its exceptional fineness and length.
  • The mill utilized mechanical rollers to separate seeds from the lint.
  • Williams Town was a key export point for cotton shipped to Liverpool.
  • Industrial operations ceased shortly after the 1834 Emancipation Act.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Salina PointSalina Point5 km · WExplore →
Bight of AcklinsBight of Acklins11 km · SExplore →
AndersonAnderson12 km · NExplore →
Snug CornerSnug Corner13 km · NExplore →
Lovely BayLovely Bay16 km · SExplore →
Salt House Ruins on Crooked IslandSalt House Ruins on Crooked Island24 km · SExplore →
Crooked Island's Limestone HillsCrooked Island's Limestone Hills24 km · SExplore →
Church GroveChurch Grove25 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cotton Gin Mill Ruin (1)

Spring Point, Bahamas📍 landmark

A settlement on Acklins island, Bahamas. Known for the ruin of an old cotton gin mill.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What was the Cotton Gin Mill?
A colonial-era mill used to separate cotton fibers from seeds.
Where are these ruins located?
They are located on various islands, often hidden in nature.
What can you see there today?
Stone walls and sometimes old machinery parts overgrown by plants.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, it is an excellent spot for historical photography.
Do I need to book a tour?
Usually, the ruins can be explored independently.
Cotton Gin Mill Ruin: where is it located?
Cotton Gin Mill Ruin is located in Bahamas.
Cotton Gin Mill Ruin: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Cotton Gin Mill Ruin: why is it worth visiting?
The Cotton Gin Mill Ruin in Williams Town, Little Exuma, is a rare and precious monument of Bahamian industrial history.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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