Pirate Legend Calico Jack

Being the history buff that I am, I’m constantly looking at street names trying to find references to the past. The pirate Calico Jack Circle street name is surrounded by an “A” list of other famous pirate street signs in every direction. Here’s more than you’ve ever wanted to know about his pirate past.

Born John Rackham December 26, 1682 commonly known as Calico Jack, was an English pirate captain operating in the Bahamas and in Cuba during the early 18th century. His nickname derived from the calico clothing he wore, while Jack is a diminutive of “John.”

Active towards the end (1718–20) of the “golden age of piracy” (1650–1730) Rackham is most remembered for two things: the design of his Jolly Roger flag, a skull with crossed swords, which contributed to the popularization of the design; and for having two female crew members, Mary Read and Rackham’s lover Anne Bonny.

Rackham cruised the Leeward Islands, Jamaica Channel, andWindward Passage. He accepted a pardon some time in 1719 and moved to New Providence, where he met Anne Bonny, who at the time was married to James Bonny. When Rackham returned to piracy in 1720 by stealing a British sloop, Bonny joined him. Their new crew included Mary Read. After a short run he was captured by pirate hunter Jonathan Barnet in 1720, before being hanged November 18 of the same year in Port Royal, Jamaica.

To find this pirate legends name blazing upon a street sign, on US-1 go to Mile Marker 23.o oceanside turning onto Spanish Main Drive. Just keep driving down till seeing Calico Jack Circle on your right.

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