Turtle Ponds

The Turtle Ponds were constructed in 1829 to hold captured turtles which, in those days, were considered a great delicacy. The ponds were extended in 1840. In 1822 some 1,500 Turtles were harvested. Many were shipped alive to the United Kingdom to be served to King George IV and to the Lords of the Admiralty. Turtle soup was often on the menu in London clubs. Since the 1950’s turtles have been a protected species. Nearby is Long Beach, where the giant Green Turtles nest during the months between November and July, burying themselves in the sand and then at an appropriate moment making their way back to the sea.