The exact location of Christopher Columbus' first landfall in the New World in 1492 has been debated for centuries because the original journal of his first voyage is lost, and it will likely never be known for sure. Recent theories and recreations based on what is known of the voyage place the first landing at present-day San Salvador in the Bahamas, Samana Cay in the Bahamas, Cat Island in the Bahamas, or possibly Grand Turk. Supporters of the Grand Turk theory point to similarities between recorded descriptions of the first island and Grand Turk, including the visibility of numerous other islands in the distance and the presence of a large natural harbor. Computer models have re-charted Columbus' course and in some cases indicate that an arrival at Grand Turk is possible. The location of Columbus's first landfall may never be known, but the question remains a fascinating and important part of history.

Photo: Grand Turk: The Original Columbus Landfall ? Marker

Photo: Mike Stroud

Photo: Mike Stroud