Lack of Infrastructure: Eleuthera was a relatively undeveloped island when the Eleutheran Adventurers arrived. There were no proper roads, bridges, or other infrastructure facilities. The settlers had to build everything from scratch, which required significant effort and resources.
Hostile Environment: The natural environment of Eleuthera posed various challenges for the settlers. The island had dense forests, rugged terrain, and limited arable land. The settlers had to clear the land, build shelters, and adapt to the harsh conditions to establish their settlements.
Food Shortages: The Eleutheran Adventurers faced food shortages due to various reasons. The island's limited agricultural resources and the lack of proper farming knowledge and tools made it difficult to sustain a sufficient food supply. The settlers relied on hunting, fishing, and trading to obtain food, but these resources were often scarce.
Disease: Disease outbreaks were a constant threat to the settlers. The unfamiliar environment and lack of medical knowledge made it challenging to prevent and treat illnesses. Malaria, dysentery, and other diseases were prevalent, causing high mortality rates among the settlers.
Conflict with the Native Population: The Eleutheran Adventurers encountered conflicts with the native Lucayan population, who had inhabited Eleuthera before their arrival. Tensions arose due to cultural differences, competition for resources, and disputes over land ownership. The settlers often resorted to force to establish their dominance over the native population.
Financial Difficulties: The Eleutheran Adventurers faced financial challenges as they established their settlements. The initial costs of transportation, land acquisition, and infrastructure development were substantial. They also had limited access to financial resources and relied on their own efforts and support from the London Company to sustain themselves.
Despite the numerous problems they faced, the Eleutheran Adventurers persevered and gradually established successful settlements in Eleuthera. Their resilience and determination laid the foundation for the development of the island and the broader Bahamas.