John Watling’s Distillery and the Antiquities, Monuments & Museum Corporation joined forces today to take the first step in a journey of giving one of Nassau’s oldest landmarks a fresh look, hoisting and removing the four cannons known as the Water Battery on Long Wharf for restoration before repositioning them at the popular beachfront site.
“This is an historic moment for Nassau and for The Bahamas as we take the first step in a journey of restoring these historic cannons,” said Pepin Argamasilla, John Watling’s Distillery co-founder. ”John Watling’s Distillery is proud to partner with the Antiquities, Monuments & Museum Corporation to bring these aging cannons back to life and shed light on the story of why they were placed at the waterfront when Nassau was a frequent target of attack. It’s a
fascinating story that we need to tell as we strive to build a better experience for our visitors and to deepen the pride of culture shared by our citizens and residents.”
According to historic records, while the battery dates back to the late 1700s, the cannons date to Victorian times. Their placement at Long Wharf, officially known as the Water Battery, is during the 1850s.
“We believe the cannons have been untouched at this location for about 50 years though they were transported to Nassau from the United Kingdom in 1850s,” explained Dr. Grace Turner, AMMC Executive Director.
“In the 1840s and 50s, the Spaniards came from Cuba, the British who had settled in America came from there. Nassau was a regular target for those on the trade routes who did battle with one another. The Spanish burned down the city in 1684. Then they occupied Nassau between 1782 and January 1783. Nassau was invaded again, twice, during the American War. These cannons have a very long history and it will be exciting to see them restored.”
The restoration effort includes replacing concrete pad platforms with authentic caissons and traveling forges that allow a cannon to be limbered, or moved, turned and faced in the direction of its target.
“John Watling’s is proud to partner with AMMC to bring this fascinating piece of history back to life,” said Jose Portuondo, co-founder. “There were those who thought we were crazy to take a property that had seen better days, located off the beaten path, and turn it into a tourist attraction. But we did it. Buena Vista Estate, home of John Watling’s Distilllery, was built in 1789 and has never looked better than it does today where hundreds enjoy the grounds and the experience every day. When we tell the story of historic Nassau in a way that entertains as
well as explains, it’s a winning combination. We are proud to be part of that formula with AMMC.”
AMMC Chairman Don Cornish thanked John Watling’s Distillery for its sponsorship. “Today is a first step,” Pepin noted, as this crane lifts off these historic monuments, but most important is what lies ahead. AMMC is especially appreciative of John Watling’s for taking on the responsibility of restoring and maintaining the cannons as part of its commitment to sharing the remarkable and engaging story of the history of The Bahamas,” said Cornish. “Every
day thousands of visitors walk by this site and in the future they will take a greater interest and have a new respect for the City of Nassau.”
Located top of the hill on Delancy Street, John Watling’s Distillery offers historic tours, food, beverage, retail and a personal rum bottling experience. It’s JOHN WATLING’S 10-Year-Old Bullion rum was awarded a Gold Medal in 2024 by Monde Selection in Brussles, Belgium.
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