The Bay Islands of Honduras are rich in culture and history, but among the treasures of the past are trades and skills that were once essential to island life but have now largely faded away.
1. Boat Building
Before modern shipping, the Bay Islands were and partially still are home to skilled boat builders who crafted dories, sloops, and schooners by hand. Using local hardwoods like mahogany and cedar, these craftsmen built vessels that were both functional and works of art. These boats were not just transportation—they were lifelines for fishing, trade, and connecting families between islands. Today, only a handful of elder craftsmen carry the knowledge of traditional boat building, and the younger generations are more reliant on fiberglass and imported boats.
2. Thatch Roofing
Long before metal roofs became the norm, island homes were topped with thatch made from dried palm leaves. The art of weaving these roofs required precision and patience, ensuring they could withstand both the tropical sun and rain. The indigenous Pech people were among the first to use this type of “roofing”.
3. Net Making
Fishing has always been a foundation of island life, and handmade nets were once an integral part of this industry. Islanders would spend hours meticulously weaving nets using natural fibers or early synthetic materials. Each net was crafted to suit specific fishing methods, from catching small baitfish to larger hauls.
4. Bush Medicine and Herbal Healing
In a time when modern medicine was scarce, islanders turned to nature for remedies. Bush doctors and healers were respected figures, using knowledge passed down through generations to treat illnesses with local herbs, roots, and plants. Remedies made from noni fruit, sea grape leaves, or mutton pepper leaves were staples in every home. While some of this knowledge remains, it’s becoming increasingly rare as pharmaceuticals replace traditional medicine.
5. Canoe Carving
Carving a canoe from a single tree trunk was a skill that required strength, vision, and deep respect for the material. These canoes were used for fishing, transportation, and even ceremonial purposes by the indigenous people and early settlers of the islands.
While these trades may no longer be essential in modern life, they are important pieces of the Bay Islands’ identity. Efforts to document and teach these skills could ensure they aren’t lost forever. Cultural workshops, storytelling events, or even integrating traditional trades into tourism can preserve this unique heritage.