Bahamas Philately: The Royal Victoria Hotel

The Royal Victoria Hotel was built in 1861 by the Government of Bahamas at a cost of £20,000. The hotel was built to cater for those seeking to escape from the American Civil War as well as Europeans seeking their fortunes.

In 1949, the property was sold to Royal Little, an American businessman and investor. The property underwent a million-dollar refurbishment. Air conditioning was implemented and 16 luxury apartments (known as the Garden Court) were added, with private lanais overlooking the gardens.

Other additions included the new Garden Swimming Pool and the Starlight Terrace where Blind Bake would play calypso music. In addition, there was the Cafe Royale, where one could dine indoor or outdoor and the Blockade Runner’s Bar. A stockbroker’s office was added in the nearby garden.

Between 1956-57 the hotel’s now 130 rooms of accommodation underwent another refurbishment by famed interior designer Dorothy Ward. Period pieces were used to reflect an old world tradition.

On 1 March 1958, 24 additional suites (known as the Centennial Court), some with kitchenettes, were added with private lanais overlooking the gardens and the swimming pool. These were designed for poolside living by Robertson Ward, a noted architect and designer of tropical hotel resorts. Also opened the same date, and opening onto the swimming pool areas, was the Centennial Room and Victoria Bar (which provided dining facilities), and the Carousel Bar (which was decorated in a circus style).

In 1958, the hotel was put up for sale and in 1959, the hotel was purchased hotel by Treadway Inns International Ltd.