In the year 1912, ten men of Bahamian ancestry came together and formed an organisation in hope of filling the needs for fellowship and community among Bahamian families in the New York area.
With the formation of this association, Bahamians coming to New York from The Bahamas and elsewhere could now meet, greet, and receive support as they pursued new jobs and attempted to reestablish themselves.
On September 17th, 1912, the Association was duly organised, a constitution was drafted, and the bylaws were framed. The 10 Bahamians who founded The Nassau Bahamas Association in New York City were Austin A. Wilson, Rubin Clinton, Charles Sawyer, Bruce Roberts, Frank Russell, Robert Carey, Arthur Minnis, Edward Brown, Henson Styles, and Willie White.
The Association’s purpose then and remains now, is to provide a place of fellowship and community for Bahamian families in the New York area. In addition to its work in strengthening relationships between Bahamian nationals, the Bahamian American Association also serves as an example of what perseverance, tenacity and courage can accomplish. To date, the Bahamian American Association is the only organisation founded by Bahamian migrants to own a building in New York City. Affectionately known as “The Bahama House” the Association’s headquarters is located in a brownstone at 211 West 137th St. near to the famed and historic Striver’s Row in Harlem.
The Association’s 100th year anniversary will be celebrated at a distinguished Gala Banquet on Saturday, September 15, 2012 at the elegant Astoria Manor, located at 25-22 Astoria Blvd, Astoria New York. Several Bahamians, persons of Bahamian decent, and friends of the Bahamas will be recognised at the Gala for their unyielding service and dedication to the community. Also several deserving students will be awarded with educational incentives.
A Service of Thanksgiving will also be hosted by Bethany Baptist Church at 11a.m. on Sunday, September 16th, 2012 located 303 West 153rd St., New York, NY, 10039.
For tickets, additional information, or to place an ad in our commemorative journal, please feel free to contact: William R. Dames (917) 207-3058 or visit: www.thebaai.org
