Indigenous Names of Towns and Islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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St. Vincent, from an actual survey made in the year 1773 : after the treaty with the Caribs

 

 

 

 

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a land rich in history and cultural significance. Many of the towns, villages, and islands within this beautiful Caribbean nation bear names rooted in the languages and traditions of its indigenous peoples—the Arawaks and Kalinago (Caribs). These names reflect the deep connection the indigenous people had to the land, its features, and their spiritual beliefs.

 

St. Vincent (Hairoun)

The island of St. Vincent was originally called Hairouna by the indigenous Kalinago people, meaning “Land of the Blessed.” This name reflects their reverence for the island’s natural beauty, fertility, and abundance of resources. For centuries, Hairouna served as a haven and a homeland for the Arawaks and later the Kalinago.

 

Kingstown

Kingstown was formerly known by its indigenous names Washigunny or Ouashegunny. This area was undoubtedly significant to the Kalinago, as its natural harbor and surrounding fertile lands would have made it an ideal location for settlement and trade.

 

Barrouallie

The town of Barrouallie, located on the west coast of St. Vincent, is derived from a Kalinago word. Historically, Barrouallie was an important settlement for the Kalinago people and later became a center for cultural interaction between the indigenous population and early European settlers.

 

Sandy Bay (Karakou)

Sandy Bay, located in the northern part of St. Vincent, was known to the Kalinago as “Karakou.” This area was a stronghold for the Kalinago and remains one of the most significant locations for indigenous heritage on the island. Today, it is home to many descendants of the Kalinago and Garifuna people.

 

The Grenadines

The chain of islands known as The Grenadines also holds indigenous significance. These islands served as essential locations for fishing, trade, and navigation for both the Arawaks and Kalinago. Although many of their original names have been replaced by European ones, their historical importance remains.

 

Bequia (Becouya)

The island of Bequia, meaning “Island of the Clouds” in the Kalinago language, was cherished for its abundant fishing waters. The indigenous people relied on Bequia for sustenance and spiritual practices, and its name reflects its natural beauty and importance.

 

Canouan

Canouan derives its name from a Kalinago word meaning “Island of Turtles.” The island was a nesting ground for sea turtles, which held significant cultural and spiritual meaning for the Kalinago. Today, Canouan retains its pristine beauty and connection to nature.

 

Mustique

The island of Mustique is believed to have an indigenous origin, though the specific meaning of its name has been lost over time. It was an important stop for indigenous seafarers, who used it as a waypoint in their travels across the Grenadines.

 

Union Island

Though known as Union Island today, it was originally called “Karakera” by the Kalinago, meaning “Land of Iguanas.” The island was home to many iguanas and other reptiles, which played a role in the Kalinago’s connection to nature.

 

Petroglyphs and Place Names

The petroglyphs found in various locations across St. Vincent serve as another testament to the indigenous people’s presence. These ancient carvings, located in places like Layou and Yambou, represent spiritual symbols, maps, and other aspects of daily life. Although some indigenous place names were lost with colonization, the carvings remain as a bridge to the past.

 

Preserving Indigenous Names and Heritage

The indigenous names of towns and islands across St. Vincent and the Grenadines provide a window into the lives and beliefs of the Arawaks and Kalinago people. These names reflect their profound relationship with the land, sea, and sky. Today, efforts are being made to preserve and celebrate these names as part of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

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By honoring these names, we not only celebrate the legacy of the indigenous people but also ensure that their stories and connection to the land are never forgotten. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not just a place; it is Hairoun—the Land of the Blessed.