Carter House
Carter House is believed to be one of the oldest buildings on St David’s Island. The house, situated on the site of the former US military base, was constructed circa 1640 by the descendants of Christopher Carter. He was one of two crew members of Sir George Somers’ shipwrecked Sea Venture who remained in Bermuda when the survivors left Bermuda for Virginia in 1610.
Although most 17th century Bermuda dwellings were constructed from wood, Carter House is built of stone. It is a typical example of early Bermudian vernacular architecture. The upper living level rests above a lower basement and is reached by an outside staircase. The gable ends are supported by large chimneys and the whole building is set into a hillside to protect against wind.
During the time of the US military, Carter House was used as a beauty parlour. These days it accommodates the St David’s Island Historical Society Museum and hosts exhibitions of whaling, farming and other aspects of Bermuda’s history.