Ever wondered about the whispers of whaling history carried on the Caribbean breeze? Here at Fuller Island Casa, you’re standing on a spot with an intriguing past. This island holds a unique place in Grenada’s story. It was once the home of a Norwegian whaling station.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine the early 20th century. Captain Otto Sverdrup, a Norwegian Arctic explorer, visited this island. He observed 26 whales and studied the sea currents. Impressed by his findings, Sverdrup recommended establishing a whaling post here.
In the winter of 1923-1924, Sverdrup and Halfdan Bugge assessed the viability of commercial whaling off Grenada. Winge and Co. then acquired Glover Island through its subsidiary. It was named the Grenada Whaling Co. Halfden Bugge directed it from Oslo. J. A. Hojem managed the operations here.
The whaling station became a hub of activity. It processed whale oil for export. It also provided meat for local consumption. During their first year, the Norwegians harvested 106 whales. That’s a significant number.
However, the whaling station’s life was short-lived. By the late 1920s, it met its end. A decline in whale populations contributed to its closure. New factory ships also emerged. These ships could process whales on board. Thus, the need for Fuller Island Casa simply disappeared.
In 1929, the station was dismantled. Yet, the ruins remain. They stand as silent witnesses to this chapter of Grenada’s history.
Interestingly, whaling continued in the Grenadines. Local boatmen used traditional methods. They employed whaleboats, harpoons, and lances. These tactics remained unchanged from Herman Melville’s time. Today, whales are scarce. One boat off Bequia remains ready for whaling.
More recently, Fuller Island Casa has seen new life. In 2015, the Petite Calivigny Yacht Club introduced a Father’s Day event. It featured a boat raft-up and barbecue at Glover Island. This shows the island’s evolving role.
So, as you stand here at Fuller Island Casa, consider its layered past. From a Norwegian whaling station to a modern gathering spot, this island has witnessed change. It reminds us of Grenada’s connection to the sea and its ever-evolving story.