Where was the first major settlement in Grand Cayman?

The first major settlement in Grand Cayman was in Bodden Town, which played a significant role in the island's early development. Established in the late 18th century, Bodden Town became the capital of the Cayman Islands and served as an administrative and commercial hub. Its location on the east coast of Grand Cayman provided a natural harbor, which facilitated trade and communication with other Caribbean islands as well as with European nations.

The town was named after a key figure, the local settler and pioneer, who contributed to the development of the area. Bodden Town is also rich in historical significance, with several heritage sites that reflect the early ways of life in the Cayman Islands. As a result, it is regarded as an important part of the cultural and historical landscape of the Cayman Islands.

Conversely, George Town, while now the capital and a major economic center, developed later. West Bay and North Side were also populated areas, but they did not emerge as significant settlements until after Bodden Town was established. The historical context of Bodden Town as the first settlement highlights its importance in understanding the early societal and cultural frameworks of the Cayman Islands.