historic picture of Charles Square, Montego Bay - 1900s
This square which was once known as 'Charles Square', was officially renamed in 1976 to commemorate Samuel Sharpe's effort in the fight for freedom. In the aftermath of the 1831 rebellion, it is estimated that 312 slaves, including Sam Sharpe were hung at the gallows in the square. The square is still used for political and other local meetings.
The 5 Statues in Sam Sharpe Square
The square contains a collection of bronze statues, among them is the Sam Sharpe Monument, designed by Kay Sullivan, portrays Sharpe holding his Bible and speaking to his people. They were unveiled by then Prime Minister the most Honourable Edward Seaga on October 16, 1983 at a ceremony in the square.
The Cage in Sam Sharpe Square Today
The Signage!
At the north end of the square, you will see a brick structure called "The Cage". Built in 1806, the cage was used as a temporary prison for slaves, drunken seamen, and other vagrants. Slaves found wandering the town after 3:00pm, were locked up in the cage. About 1822 the Vestry replaced the wooden structure of the Cage with one of stone bricks. The Cage as since seen a number of uses such as, a town lock-up, latrine, a clinic, and a tourist office. It is now used as a small museum.
Sam Sharpe Square Today
Freedom Monument
No comments:
Post a Comment