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Part 1 - Billy Butlin holiday
The story of Butlins Bahamas begins with Billy Butlin taking a vacation. He cautioned himself about his tendency to think about his business ventures and potential opportunities. It was his break at Barry Island when he thought of the idea of Butlins. Part one of the Butlins Memorabilia starts here
Part 2 - The Butlins Bahamas Hotels
The Bahamas offers an impressive array of attractions for those seeking a vacation destination. Billy Butlin acquired two luxury hotels in the Bahamas, namely Fort Montagu and the Princess, which were associated with the Butlins Holiday Resort hotel division. The names did not have Butlins in front of them.
The Butlins Bahamas Hotels Postcards
Here is a collection of postcards showing both the Fort Montagu and the Princess Hotel in the Bahamas. These hotels play a crucial role in the history of Butlins Bahamas Limited. Explore the photographs that show where Billy Butlin would eventually meet the partner who helped develop Butlin's Bahamas Ltd.
Part 3 - The idea and planning - 1948
After considering the potential of the Bahamas, Billy Butlin, Brigadier-General Alfred Critchley, and Howard Charles Drayton began to explore the establishment of a new Butlins holiday resort in the West End of Grand Bahama. A significant amount of work would be required for this project.
Part 4 - The construction of the village - 1949
The Bahamas government has granted planning permission with specified terms and conditions. This year will be marked by significant challenges and pressures for Billy Butlin during the development of this new holiday village.
Part 5 - The Butlins Vacation Village - 1950
The newly established Butlins Vacation Village has officially opened its doors to welcome its first guests. However, Billy Butlin is not entirely satisfied, as the site is still incomplete, leaving much work to be done. Time is not on Billy Butlin's side, resulting in a sense of frustration for the shareholders and chairman of Butlins Bahamas Ltd.
The Butlins Bahamas Vacation Village Postcards
Presenting a selection of postcards showcasing the Butlins Vacation Village at the West End in Grand Bahama. This is a remarkable opportunity to view images from an era before it transformed into the incredible site you see now. A wonderful chance to explore photographs from the time of a holiday resort that no longer exists, to share its tale as a Butlins.
Part 6 - Trying to save a Butlins camp - 1951 - 1952
The holiday village has ceased operations due to the need for additional funding to sustain it. Harold Drayton has acquired a controlling interest in the company. Leadership changes have occurred, including a new chairman. This period also marked Billy Butlin's earnest efforts to prevent the resort from going into liquidation.
Part 7 - The resort closes down for good - 1953
William Dunn diligently worked behind the scenes to secure the necessary funds for acquiring the Butlins Bahamas Resort from Billy Butlin. Unfortunately, his efforts concluded in 1953 when the offer was retracted, initiating the liquidation process and marking the end to a story of an important Butlins location.
Part 8 - Butlins Bahamas Resort after closure?
As the story concludes at Butlins Bahamas Ltd, I delve deeper into its history to uncover the events that transpired at the resort. This exploration includes a visit from Billy Butlin and his wife, during which they assess the developments at the site that significantly altered the Butlins timeline.
Part 9 - Butlins Bahamas Resort after closure?
The Butlins Bahamas resort has closed, but its story lives on as 'The Grand Bahama Club', with new management steering its future. This is also a very special moment as we see the Skin Diver competition come to the Bahamas for the first time.
Part 10 - New ownership as Jack Tar era starts
The previous Butlins Bahamas resort has been sold and is now under new management, marking the beginning of the Jack Tar era. With significant investment in the property, the location is undergoing numerous updates to align with the Jack Tar group's vision for the resort's future.
Mark Banks final words
Explore the insights of Mark Banks, the owner of the Butlins Memorabilia website, as he recounts his journey into the history of Butlins Bahamas, revealing its significance far beyond his initial understanding, thus making the experience rewarding.
