The Deanery

"The Deanery" (1979) painting by Alton R. Lowe

I have tried to paint as many of the old houses as possible with the idea that time and hurricanes will see most of them disappear. Hopefully, The Deanery, which is the subject of this painting from 1979, will be an exception.

"According to the Bahamian Government Archives, the house was purchased for the Dean of the Anglican Church in the Bahamas in 1800. The house itself may be the oldest in Nassau and it is estimated to have been built circa 1710. It has porches on three sides and has wonderful views of the sea. At three stories in height when built, it was one of the larger homes in Nassau.

Today, the building continues to be the home of the Anglican Church in the Bahamas. Lovingly cared for, it is one of the most important historic buildings in the country. If you would like to see the original painting, it is in the collection of the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. - Alton