Little is known about the early days of The Ragged Island chain other than the settlement of Great Ragged Island was named Duncan Town after its founder who developed the island’s salt industry. Ragged Island is believed to have been a pirate safe house at one point, with its rocks and caves offering great hideaways. Blackbeard's Bay and Blackbeard's Well signify that the pirate may have established his headquarters near the well because of its unique location. Today, just 72 people call Ragged Island home. Because the population is so small, the three religious denominations on the island get together at the same church each Sunday and celebrate as one community.
Great Ragged Island, the main island in the Jumento Cays, is one of the smallest inhabited islands in The Bahamas archipelago. Its population has dwindled from a high of 477 persons in 1943 to less than 100 today.
Ragged Islanders are a hardy, seafaring people, who build boats, booms, and masts for sailing sloops, race boats in regattas, and fish. They love the sea so much that nearly every home is built to have a breathtaking view of the ocean.
Only the Anglican, Baptist, and Church of God denominations are represented on the island. And, due to the small population, there is a floating schedule with everyone worshipping together on Sunday at one of the three churches.
The croissant-shaped Jumento Chain comprises islets, cays, and rocks stretching over 110 miles. They include Great and Little Ragged Island, Raccoon Cay, Hog Cay, Knife Cay, Nurse Cay, Flamingo Cay, and Double-Breasted Cay.
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