Salt Ponds & Canal

The trenches through the salt pond canals were hand cut by slaves so that salt water could flow from the Atlantic Ocean into the canals to make salt, which is produced when the sea water dries out. The canals are called Dr. Dubass Pond and Chantry Pond, the latter because only by chance it would make salt!

Sailboats came all the way from England and Scotland to bring supplies into the Clarence Town Harbor. Whenever there were no supplies to bring, the boats would be loaded down with pebbles for ballast, so that the boat did not sink. Some of the pebbles were gold bars.

The people of Long Island raked salt and stocked it up in sacks provided by the boats and then carried them to the harbor on a horse and buggy. After the salt was stacked on the boats, the pebbles would be thrown overboard. Everyone came to work for pennies, which was worth 2-3 cents per day.

Accessibility Notes

Individuals with mobility impairments and those in a wheelchairs can get a good view of the site along the pathway.

Pet Friendly Notes

Leashed pets are allowed, but must be controlled.

Time Period Represented

Mid 1700s

Seasons Open

Year Round

None