History of BTC (The Bahamas) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 21, 2025

BTC, or Bahamas Telecommunications Company, is the main telecommunications provider in the Bahamas. It is headquartered in Nassau and is partly government-owned. BTC provides a range of services, including telephone, internet, and wireless services to the Bahamian population.

October 5, 1906: Introduction of the First Telephone System

On October 5, 1906, the first telephone system was introduced in Nassau, Bahamas, serving 150 subscribers.

December 16, 1933: Introduction of Telephone Service to the United States

On December 16, 1933, the first telephone service from the Bahamas to the United States was introduced, marking a significant milestone in international communication.

October 15, 1979: Robert Bartlett becomes general manager

On October 15, 1979, Robert Bartlett became general manager. During his administration, Batelco moved from its rented location in the Chase Building to its own offices on John F. Kennedy Drive.

April 10, 1996: Agreement Signed for Bahamas II Submarine Cable

On April 10, 1996, an agreement was signed for the engineering and installation of the Bahamas II Submarine Cable.

September 4, 2002: Batelco Rebrands as BTC

On September 4, 2002, Batelco transitioned and rebranded as BTC (Bahamas Telecommunications Company).

April 6, 2011: Privatization of BTC

On April 6, 2011, The Government of The Bahamas and Cable & Wireless Communications privatized The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), transferring 51% of the public corporation to CWC for $210 million. New payment methods including online minute-loading were introduced.