A Barbadian legend since 1887, The Crane has long attracted travellers to its extraordinary expanse of pink sand and turquoise waters. In celebration of such a remarkable and storied history, Crane Concierge presents 5 Historical Facts about The Crane You Probably Didn’t Know:
1. The Horse
In the 18th century it was considered improper for ladies to be seen bathing in public. Sea bathing, however, had become so popular that by 1769, at least one discreet bathing place had been constructed near The Crane. It was referred to as 'The Horse' and was approached by steps cut into the sea cliff. The stairs to 'The Horse' can still be seen descending from the far side of the south of The Crane, much as they were in 1769.
2. The Carriage House
The Carriage House Bar & Grill was originally used as stables for the horses of the original ‘Crane Beach Hotel’. Before cars were brought to Barbados in the 1920s, guests of The Crane were picked up by a horse carriage from the nearby railway station at the Bushy Park Station.
3. The Grand Jeté Statue
The Grand Jeté Statue was sculpted by the famous Italian sculptor Enzo Plazzotta and brought to Barbados by a former owner of The Crane, along with the 'Swan Lady' statue by the Historic Pool. It is a famous sculpture of David Wall - an English ballet dancer, who, at the age of 21, became the youngest male Principal in the history of The Royal Ballet. Plazzotta sculpted one other identical statue about half the size, which can be seen along Millbank in Westminster, London.
4. Pavilion Room
Built in the 1920’s, The Crane’s ballroom was a popular dance spot, with many an “Old Year’s Night” celebration held in the room then known as “The Casino.”
5. Marine Villa
Previously the area's main building, Marine Villa today exists almost in its original state and forms the east section of The Crane Resort. The style of its windows and casements suggests it was built around 1790. The red bricks found on the terraces of Marine Villa made their way to Barbados as ballast in ships from England, which would then be replaced with Sugar on its way out of Barbados in the 1700s.
Immerse yourself in the history of The Crane! Book your stay at the luxurious Crane Resort. Email reservations@thecrane.com.
