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Travel Home > Jamaica > See The Forts of Jamaica
See The Forts of Jamaica
by, Dennis Cheesman
Owner and author
During the colonization period of Jamaica, particularly in the early years, the building of forts was an important aspect in both protecting the island nation from external enemies and plunderers and keeping the enslaved and working classes under control. Several of these forts have crumbled and lie in ruins, while many others have been restored and put to other uses. Touring the forts of Jamaica offers a glance back into an interesting and often troubling history, as well as provides insight into the Jamaican culture of today.
Fort Charles, which was originally named Fort Cromwell, is the first of the six forts to be built for the protection of Port Royal, Jamaica. The building of the structure was begun in 1655, not long after the British assumed control of the island. Towards the end of the 17th century it had 500 men and had 104 big guns, and was well stocked and prepared to defend. In later years the fort served as a prison. Today, it is home to a museum and is open for tours.
Ocho Rios Fort was built in the late 1600's. In 1780, it was strengthened and partially rebuilt in anticipation of French invasion during one of many periods of unrest between France and Britain. The fort, periodically rebuilt through the years, recently went through another renovation and still contains two of the cannons it had centuries ago. Through the years, it has served many uses, including that of slaughterhouse.
The Morant Bay Fort is another one of the numerous forts to be found throughout Jamaica. Built just after the middle of the 1700's, it is located behind the Morant Bay Courthouse. Three of the big guns that were added during the period of the fear of French attack during the late 18th century still remain. There are historical statues and memorials nearby, honoring those who lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom in Jamaica.
Named for an intimate female companion of King George III, Fort Charlotte was built in the mid 1700's. Though small, housing only 50 men, it was heavily armed and fortified, having 23 guns and a devise allowing some to be rotated to fire in any direction necessary. Part of the fort is home to a local high school, but the site is worth visiting simply because of the impressive view.
Fort Haldane is another fort known for its lovely view. Located at Port Maria, and named for the General who also, at one point, served as governor of the island, this structure was built in 1759. It placement, on a hill facing the water, made it a true asset for defense in that era. Today, its placement is what makes the view from the grounds so spectacular.
The many forts that dot the coastal areas of Jamaica are a reminder of the past, solid pieces of history that demonstrate something of the many cultures and peoples that have shaped the Jamaica of today. Some of these forts have been the sites moments of great import to Jamaican history. All of these forts have something to share with those who choose to visit their grounds.
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The Best Art In Jamaica | Stop To Smell The Flowers In Jamaica | Enjoy Great Golf In Jamaica | Explore Caves In Jamaica | Special Museums In Jamaica | Eating Out In Jamaica | Great Houses and Homes from Colonial Era Jamaica | Natural Wonders In Ocho Rios |
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See The Forts of Jamaica
See The Forts of Jamaica
by, Dennis Cheesman
Owner and author
Fort Charles, which was originally named Fort Cromwell, is the first of the six forts to be built for the protection of Port Royal, Jamaica. The building of the structure was begun in 1655, not long after the British assumed control of the island. Towards the end of the 17th century it had 500 men and had 104 big guns, and was well stocked and prepared to defend. In later years the fort served as a prison. Today, it is home to a museum and is open for tours.
Ocho Rios Fort was built in the late 1600's. In 1780, it was strengthened and partially rebuilt in anticipation of French invasion during one of many periods of unrest between France and Britain. The fort, periodically rebuilt through the years, recently went through another renovation and still contains two of the cannons it had centuries ago. Through the years, it has served many uses, including that of slaughterhouse.
The Morant Bay Fort is another one of the numerous forts to be found throughout Jamaica. Built just after the middle of the 1700's, it is located behind the Morant Bay Courthouse. Three of the big guns that were added during the period of the fear of French attack during the late 18th century still remain. There are historical statues and memorials nearby, honoring those who lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom in Jamaica.
Named for an intimate female companion of King George III, Fort Charlotte was built in the mid 1700's. Though small, housing only 50 men, it was heavily armed and fortified, having 23 guns and a devise allowing some to be rotated to fire in any direction necessary. Part of the fort is home to a local high school, but the site is worth visiting simply because of the impressive view.
Fort Haldane is another fort known for its lovely view. Located at Port Maria, and named for the General who also, at one point, served as governor of the island, this structure was built in 1759. It placement, on a hill facing the water, made it a true asset for defense in that era. Today, its placement is what makes the view from the grounds so spectacular.
The many forts that dot the coastal areas of Jamaica are a reminder of the past, solid pieces of history that demonstrate something of the many cultures and peoples that have shaped the Jamaica of today. Some of these forts have been the sites moments of great import to Jamaican history. All of these forts have something to share with those who choose to visit their grounds.
More Jamaica related Articles
The Best Art In Jamaica | Stop To Smell The Flowers In Jamaica | Enjoy Great Golf In Jamaica | Explore Caves In Jamaica | Special Museums In Jamaica | Eating Out In Jamaica | Great Houses and Homes from Colonial Era Jamaica | Natural Wonders In Ocho Rios |