The buildings that made up the Royal Victoria Hotel, located in the Royal Victoria Gardens on Shirley Street just opposite the Nassau Public Library, were built by the Bahamas Government in August 1861. During the American Civil War the hotel was the centre of business and social activities. It was also a center for bootleggers during American prohibition days and the home to many British and American airmen during World War II. Segments of the movie, ,Gone With The Wind'was filmed at this hotel. Several years ago the main building of the Royal Victoria Hotel was destroyed by fire and later completely demolished. Some portions of the hotel were saved and the site now serves as the home of the Ministry of Health.