Typically, we associate the Caribbean islands as a luxury destination with the ideal climate for weddings and honeymoons. Very rarely do most tourists take the time to delve into the history of these islands the same way you would if you were visiting Jordan or Italy, for example.
It’s time for that to change. Especially since the Black Lives Matter movement. A small way we can do our part to learning about its significance and the effect inequality had on the Caribbean islands in particular, is by learning more about the history, traditions and heritage of the islands, gaining understanding and sharing with others. That is exactly what I intend to do with a round up of a few places that will give you an insight into the history, traditions and heritage of Barbados.
Harrison’s Cave
In 1974 adventurer Ole Sorensen, along with Barbadians Tony Mason and Allison Thornhill rediscovered and mapped Harrison’s Cave. The government directed shafts and tunnels to be excavated, providing a space for tours to view the stalactites hanging from the roof of the cave, stalagmites that emerge from the ground and the streams of crystal-clear waters that form deep emerald pools. It can reach up to a very humid 27°C inside the cave, so remember to stay hydrated folks! Before your walking, tram or eco tour begins, you’ll have time to browse around the visitor's centre, where you’ll learn about the natural limestone foundations of Barbados. There is also a gift shop providing refreshments and handicraft shops, along with an exhibit of Amerindian artifacts that have been excavated from various sites around the island. After a short presentation, you will then make your way to the cave entrance in a James Bond-style experience, as you descend through an 8-storey lift to a lower level, where your journey through the cave begins!
George Washington House & Garrison Tunnels
It's not too hard to imagine why Barbados was the only place George Washington travelled too abroad! A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must if you’re looking to delve into some Bajan history. Begin the tour by watching a short film introducing George Washington and his time on the island before stepping into the beautifully restored house. Don’t miss out on the upper floor of the house which divulges into the history of Barbados, including the rule of the British Empire, slavery and much more...
The mysterious Garrison Tunnels were originally constructed to provide drainage to the area. However, history has indicated that they were used as ‘escape routes’ if invasion was to occur.
Gun Hill Signal Station
For panoramic views and events with a spectacular backdrop of the island, Gun Hill Signal Station is the place to go!
Originally, one of the many signal stations built in 1818. The stations would sight ships approaching the island and signal to one another whether it was a friend or foe! The signal stations were also used to warn of slave rebellions across the island. Climb the signal tower for the most impressive views of the island and to find the chart showing what each flag signal used by the soldiers meant.
Keep a close eye out for the lion at Gun Hill, a short distance down the road from the main site. ‘He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river, unto the ends of the earth’ - this statue was carved out of a single piece of rock in 1868 by Captain Henry Wilkinson, who was stationed at Gun Hill. It represents the mighty reign of the British Empire over the world, with the ball representing the globe.
Tyrol Cot Heritage Village
The land of Tyrol Cot heritage village was once home to the Prime Minister of the Federation of the West Indies, Sir Grantley Adams. If you’ve been to the island, that name should sound familiar. Grantley Adams international airport is the only gateway into and out of Barbados. Upon visiting his residence, you will also be able to see the difference in societal classes.
“Chattel houses” which means “movable possession” were located on plantation lands as removable structures, since workers often had to relocate their families, if circumstances required. The iconic Bajan chattel house symbolises the historical and cultural story related to the post-emancipation plantation economy.
Upon reflection, it dawned on me that a part of my passion for travel can be related back to learning history in primary school. The same fascination takes over me, making me want to learn about the way life was and has come to be. It’s one thing to go to a museum and see pieces of the past displayed attractively for us to look at. But you gain a whole different perspective when you’re standing inside the actual construction, with the layout as it would have been (or near enough), surrounded by household essentials from that era used by those inhabiting the space. So, when we began wandering around this visual heritage of Barbados and the well-preserved Chattel houses or ‘slave huts’, I began to have very mixed emotions. It brought great awareness to see how Barbadians survived during the years of emancipation, when they lived in removable structures and had very few possessions but also moved me with a great sense of sadness knowing that Barbadians were constantly living in fear.
St Nicholas Abbey
Like most of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is widely known for its rum. St Nicholas Abbey is a 350-year-old, family run plantation house that produces a wide range of sugar-based items including molasses as well as rum. On your visit to the Abbey, you will learn the heritage of Barbados’ part in making the spirit loved around the world today with a visit to the onsite syrup factory, rum distillery and sugar mill. You will also be able to explore the first floor of the great house, an insight into the generations that have lived and worked at St Nicholas Abbey. There is a lot more to experience across the plantation’s land than just those buildings though! The best way to see the rest of it? Take a steam railway tour passing by the historic St Nicholas Abbey Great House, around the lake and through the woodlands. Finish with a-sort-of literal cherry on top at Cherry Tree Hill! An elevated point that offers breath-taking views of the island’s east coast. Not to mention that this is the only way you’ll be able to experience a train ride in Barbados!
A little peek in to the heritage of Barbados sugar production:
The first settlers arrived in Barbados in 1627 and by 1637 around 6000 English settlers had joined them; It was the Dutch Jews who brought the equipment and expertise to the island, therefore financing and establishing the island’s sugar industry. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Barbadian slaves were worked inhumanely until the governing English directed plant owners to improve their treatment.
Rum Shack
A visit to one of over 1500 rum shops located across the island provides the perfect opportunity to embrace Bajan lifestyle. Packed with various rums from all over the Caribbean, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy a drink, indulge on some traditional snacks, lime (hang-out) with the locals, perhaps even participate in a game of cards or dominoes - a truly Caribbean experience in which you can savour the pace of island living. I particularly love how each one is uniquely decorated, allowing the respective owner to add their own charm to this authentic culture!
I hope this little glimpse into the heritage of Barbados has inspired you to add at least one of these spots onto your Barbados itinerary and if you’re looking for some more inspiration on what to do on the island, check out MY BARBADOS MUSTS.
“Pride and Industry” – Bajan Motto
Comments