Originally called Marlin Spike Hall, Caledonia and Craig were joined by a human-made causeway which was built in order to replace an eroded strip of land. Because of this, it was popularly believed that the two islands were one island, which explains the name “The Five Islands”. The island possesses two beaches, one to the north and one to the south of the island, and two jetties were built for each beach, however, only one was maintained. Lieutenant Herbert Mackworth R.N., who hailed from Scotland, served as the Marshall of Trinidad in the 1850’s and was granted the two islands. The two islands were eventually repurchased by Mr. Caldwell, who was also a Scotsman and he named the larger island Caledonia.
Being the largest of the islands, Caledonia was the most exclusive, and mainly senior civil servants were able to rent it. The house on Caledonia was primarily used as a residence for the medical officer of the Five Islands for a few years until it was abandoned and left to ruin. After World War II Sir Alan Reece obtained the house, however, his lack of ownership of the island coupled with the unwillingness of the government to source money for renovations of the house led to disrepair.
During World War II, refugee Jews and a few non-Europeans fleeing persecution from Europe, were detained on some islands. Women and children were kept on Caledonia in the main house.
Caledonia is the largest of the five islands, standing at 164ft and possessing 6 acres of land. Lord Harris who was Governor of Trinidad from 1848-1854, honeymooned at the first house built on the island with his Trinidadian wife, Sarah Cummins, leading it and the others to be called, The Honeymoon Islands. That house was unfortunately abandoned and fell into ruin but was rebuilt in 1890. East Indian immigrants arriving on Nelson Island who desired to be married would have their ceremony on Caledonia, transforming it into the official hub designated for marriage ceremonies. A special ceremony took place on November 13th 1957, which grew Caledonia’s popularity. Dr. Eric Williams was married on Caledonia to Mayleen Mook Sang with six witnesses in attendance, at a private service on that day. Caledonia island is currently under the protection of the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago as a heritage site. Contact the Trust for permission to visit.
Craig
The smallest of the five islands, Craig measures at less than 3000 square metres. The island was joined to Caledonia by a causeway and the combined landmass was formerly known as Marlin Spike Hall. In the 1850’s it was granted to Lieutenant Herbert Mackworth R.N. who renamed the smaller island Craig. Subsequent to World War II, Craig became a residence for the Caretaker of the island. The house was known to be grandiose and luxurious. There was a separate kitchen structure, an outhouse and verandah from which one could witness a beautiful view of Nelson Island. Utensils, crockery and linen were stored for use on the island; however they would sometimes be rented out by Civil Servants. The Caretaker would be responsible for ensuring all utensils used were returned properly and intact. The structures on the island were abandoned and only ruins are left presently. Craig island is currently under the protection of the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago as a heritage site.
