Exploring Bermuda’s Enduring Allure: Part II

Bermuda lies in ocean’s embrace,
Where skies of blue and waters lace.
With whispered winds and gentle tides,
In Bermuda's beauty, the soul abides.

Thus wrote Emily Dickinson, the famous American poet. Bermuda’s beauty is well recognised and well appreciated. But what is not commonly known is that this beauty is as much crafted by its history as it is by a benevolent nature whose extraordinary generosity is stamped everywhere, whether they are the beaches of scintillating pink sand, or the emerald- green waters that kiss these beaches; whether they are the verdant and luxurious hill side, or the radiant hued of hibiscus and oleander that brighten the landscape.
An Extraordinary History
So, what is the history of Bermuda? Bermuda, known for its stunning landscapes and rich maritime history, has a fascinating history spanning around 400 years. The story of Bermuda begins in 1505 when Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez first discovered the island. Despite this early discovery, it wasn't until 1609 that Bermuda saw its first permanent settlers. This happened when the English ship Sea Venture, bound for Jamestown, Virginia, was shipwrecked on Bermuda’s reefs. The survivors, led by Admiral Sir George Somers, established a settlement, marking the beginning of Bermuda's colonial history.
By 1612, Bermuda had become an official English colony with the arrival of settlers on the ship Plough, who founded the town of St. George’s. This town became the third successful English settlement in the New World after Jamestown and Newfoundland. Throughout the 17th century, Bermuda developed an economy based on agriculture, shipbuilding, and trade. Unfortunately, this period also saw the introduction of slavery, with African slaves becoming a significant part of the population. In 1684, Bermuda’s self-governance was formalized under the English Crown, solidifying its status as a colonial outpost.
Bermuda's maritime significance grew during the 19th century, particularly during the War of 1812 between the United Kingdom and the United States. Bermuda served as a strategic naval base for the British, with the Royal Navy using it as a staging ground for raids along the American coastline, including the infamous burning of Washington, D.C. Following the war, Bermuda's importance as a naval base continued to rise, with the establishment of the Royal Naval Dockyard, which became a key British naval facility in the Atlantic.

St. Peter’s Church-The oldest Anglican Church in the Western Hemisphere

In the early 20th century, Bermuda's economy began to diversify with the growth of tourism, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and mild climate. During World War II, Bermuda’s strategic location once again made it an asset. Military bases were constructed by both the British and Americans, with the United States establishing air and naval bases under a lend-lease agreement with the UK. However, by 1949, the US returned control of the bases to the British, maintaining a military presence until 1995.
The late 20th century saw significant political and economic developments in Bermuda. In 1968, Bermuda adopted a new constitution, providing for internal self-government while retaining its status as a British Overseas Territory. The closure of the US military bases in 1995 marked the end of Bermuda's role as a significant military outpost, allowing the island to focus more on its economic strengths.
Today, Bermuda thrives as a financial centre and tourist destination. Its economy is bolstered by international business, particularly the insurance and reinsurance industries. The island's rich history, marked by its strategic maritime importance and economic diversification, continues to shape its unique position in the Atlantic world. Bermuda’s journey from a shipwreck site to a prosperous British Overseas Territory is a testament to its resilience and adaptability.
Hibiscus - A Vibrant Symbol of Nature’s Resilience and Splendour.
Bermuda's natural beauty extends beyond its historic landmarks and turquoise waters to its rich flora and fauna, adding another layer to its allure. The island's national symbols—the hibiscus, oleander, and sparrow—each contribute uniquely to Bermuda's landscape and cultural identity.

The hibiscus, with its striking array of colours from pink to purple, green, and yellow, adorns Bermuda's gardens and roadsides. As the national flower, the hibiscus symbolizes both the island's tropical charm and its resilience. Its vibrant petals, often seen swaying gently in the ocean breeze, evoke a sense of tranquillity and natural splendour that resonates throughout Bermuda's landscapes.
Though less visible than Hibiscus, Bermudiana is the official national flower of the island. A tiny plant belonging to Iris family, it has a distinctive purple flower with a bright yellow centre in the spring. Perhaps its comparatively rare visibility and an anxiety to preserve this delicate and exquisite and fetching flower may have led to the decision to name it the National Flower.

As prominent as Hibiscus, is the Oleander, known for its evergreen foliage and clusters of delicate, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and red. Despite its beauty, the oleander carries a subtle reminder of Bermuda's rugged environment, thriving in the island's rocky soils and coastal regions. Its presence along roadsides and in gardens adds a touch of elegance and endurance to Bermuda's natural tapestry.
The Music of Sparrows’ Chirp 

In the skies above, the Bermuda sparrow, also known as the Bermuda chaffinch, holds a place as the most visible bird. Endemic to the island, this small, charming bird with its distinctive markings and cheerful chirp is a beloved symbol of Bermuda's unique biodiversityEncountering the sparrow amidst Bermuda's lush greenery or along its scenic trails offers visitors and residents alike a glimpse into the island's natural heritage and the delicate balance of its ecosystems.
Yet, Bermuda chose the Cahow (a.k.a. the Bermuda petrel) as its national bird, a bird species that was close to extinction in 1600s because it was staple of early Bermudian diet. Today it is something of a miracle to see this bird soaring in the deep blue skies of Bermuda.

Together, these elements—the hibiscus and oleander colouring the landscape, and the sparrow flitting through the skies—paint a vivid picture of Bermuda's natural treasures. They complement the island's historical narrative, reminding us that Bermuda's beauty is not just in its past, but in the thriving ecosystem that continues to flourish amidst its storied shores.
Tourists’ Haven
While visitors are drawn to its natural beauty, the history- soaked architecture and the cute and inviting buildings whisper countless tales of the past, whether its quaint and charming St. George or the military marvel known as Naval Dockyard. One can wander through the cobbled streets of Bermuda's oldest settlement, St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage where colonial architecture whispers tales of a bygone era, or visit St. Peter's Church, the oldest continuously operating Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere. Oe one can step back in time at the Royal Naval Dockyard, a fortress-turned-cultural hub that offers a glimpse into Bermuda's maritime legacy. One can explore historic landmarks such as the National Museum of Bermuda and the Clocktower Mall, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, where majestic ships stand sentinel against the horizon. Or one can delve into the depths of Bermuda's subterranean world at Crystal Caves, a geological wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes or embark on a guided tour through this natural marvel, where shimmering crystal formations cast an otherworldly glow upon the shadowy caverns, and let your imagination run wild amidst the timeless beauty of the earth's inner sanctum.
A Fascinating Journey
Bermuda's journey from a shipwreck site to a thriving British Overseas Territory reflects its remarkable resilience and adaptability. Its rich history and strategic significance continue to shape its unique identity in the Atlantic world, ensuring that Bermuda remains not only a place of historical intrigue but also a beacon of natural beauty and cultural diversity.
"In Bermuda, the sunsets are as breathtaking as the legends.", goes an anonymous observation. The beauty and the legends have attracted men and women of excellence to its shores. Poets, writers, politicians, artistes, they have all congregated here and in their own way paid tribute to the charm and charisma of this place.
But about it, in the next part!
(To Be Continued….)

(Uday Kumar Varma is an IAS officer. Retired as Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting)