My Camino: Day 18 Friday 13th December 2024, Bridgestone, Barbados Walking Tour

We walked, this time through the park to find coffee and meet our guide for a tour of Bridgetown.

Every park has Christmas trees, their favourite greeting is 'have a good Christmas' when I asked why, they told me, its because I may not see you before then.

Nativity scene on the main square

Christmas trees - so many, in one area, they had a tree for every member of the commonwealth including South Africa

I am Barbados, a beautiful island in the Caribbean, with a rich history that dates back to the 1500s. My story began when the Portuguese spotted me in 1536, but it was the English who claimed me in 1625. I became a British colony, and my landscape transformed as sugar plantations flourished, driven by enslaved African labor.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, I became a major sugar producer, which brought wealth to my planters but immense suffering to my enslaved population. The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a significant turning point in my history, leading to social changes and the emergence of new communities.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, I saw the rise of a middle class and movements advocating for rights and representation. My people fought for political and social change, culminating in universal suffrage in 1951.

I gained full independence from Britain on November 30, 1966, becoming a sovereign nation. Since then, I have developed a vibrant democracy, a strong economy, and a rich cultural heritage, blending African, European, and indigenous influences.

Today, I am known for my stunning beaches, thriving tourism, and a commitment to preserving my natural beauty and cultural identity. My journey reflects resilience, transformation, and the enduring spirit of my people.

Humour?

In front of the South African Xmas tree

Families of slaves repatriated back to Liberia

Heroes square

Original streets dating back to the 1600s

Original buildings made out of coral stone

Emancipation for enslaved people in Barbados was officially granted on August 1, 1834. This was part of the Slavery Abolition Act passed by the British Parliament, which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire. However, it is important to note that the act initially established a system of "apprenticeship," which required former enslaved individuals to work for their former owners for a period of time before gaining full freedom. This apprenticeship system was eventually abolished in 1838, leading to complete emancipation.

Codds House Monument significant for the signing of the full freedom for apprenticed workers after emancipation in 1838.

Oldest Building dating back to the 1600s

Gill was a prominent leader in the Methodist community during the 19th century and is remembered for her dedication to social justice and education. She was instrumental in establishing schools and promoting literacy among the local population, particularly for women and children. Her efforts helped to lay the groundwork for the expansion of Methodist teachings and practices in Barbados.

In addition to her educational initiatives, Gill was also involved in various charitable activities and worked to improve the living conditions of the underprivileged in her community. Her legacy continues to be honored within the Methodist Church and among those who recognize her contributions to social and religious reform in Barbados.

Christmas lights while walking to dinner. We ate at Cafe de Mer, an Italian restaurant led by a Israeli/ French Chef Iguel, hope spelling is correct. Chef Iguel is from Canada settled in Bridgetown due to Covid repercussions to his catering business and has MasterChef temperament mastered. Took one look at me and declared i would have fish, Mahi Mahi to be precise and he was correct also predicting my choice of spring rolls to start. Michael who was allowed to order his starter, chicken wings, ended with Nona's spaghetti bolognaise with meatballs, spicy. We had lots of fun chatting.