Behold the Beauty of Spanish Town
A search of the legendary Iron Bridge on November 28, 2022 turned into amazing story. My amazement was not just the bridge but the story behind everything connected to the bridge and once it is crossed, there is no turning back. One might ask what is so special about this bridge and the purpose it serves. The vicinity of Spanish Town square is something to talk about in its entirety. Let’s start at the beginning.
Situated 400 meters across from the Spanish Town Hospital, you find the Iron, an old historic bridge that was once trod horses and carriages . According to the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, the Iron Bridge was built in 1801 at a cost of £4,000. The Iron bridge stands today as a colossal monument with the Rio Cobre River running below with iron cast and cut stones as its source of fortitude. However, her life is becoming extinct as the river gradually and maliciously erodes its base.
Citizens from the old capital used this bridge constantly which was the main thoroughfare connecting St. Andrew and Kingston pre independence. It is the oldest bridge of its kind in the region. Efforts are made to have this historical site preserved as it is one of several main attractions within the old capital.
Approximately 1000 meters from the bridge heading towards the Spanish Town Square, travelers are graced the beauty and nostalgia of the Spanish Town Cathedral. It is noted to be the oldest Anglican church in the British Caribbean that is still being used today. The Spanish Town church is also known to have been the record keeper for marriages, death and birth documents for dignitaries and public figures during the nineteenth century. One could hardly believe the great historical value this building has. Once a Spanish church, it was destroyed and rebuilt after an earthquake in 1714 the British. Proceeding toward the center of the city, more attractions are revealed.
The park is surrounded the old Kings House and the current Spanish Town Municipal building. It is a moment of honor to remember that the proclamation of slavery was announced on the steps of the Old Kings House. Another interesting revelation is the old House of Assembly where governors and other officials from all over the world met to discuss important matters of the colony. This building now houses the Municipal Office for the parish of St. Catherine.
The old burnt out courthouse and Rodney Memorial, also adjacent as the park lies between both buildings which spans approximately one hundred meters in distance. It is said that the old courthouse was an armory and a burying ground before it was transformed. The Rodney Memorial statue is flanked two cannon guns.
The scenery was so spectacular, and it brings memories of a colorful past. Spanish Town is indeed a site not for sore eyes but for everyone who would like to know more about our history. If there was an opportunity to tour these historical artifacts again, there will be no hesitation.
A talk with Mr. Douglas Yapp who describes himself as homeless, gave descriptive words about his experience as a resident and frequent visitor of the site. Often times he visits the area to feed stray dogs and engage visitors who seek information. He expressed his pleasure in providing information and urges visitors to be appreciative of the city’s attraction.
The Iron Bridge, Spanish Town Cathedral, The Old Kings House and Courthouse, the Park and Rodney Memorial, are evidence that Jamaica is a great heritage tourist location. Mr. Yapp expressed his love and admiration for the edifices within the Spanish Town Square and crave not only for public support but personal help so he could take care of his himself and at the same time do more formally to guide visitors.
Spanish Town Square, along with other areas of the old capital is worth talking about. This is just one area, and you can imagine the rest of the country. Citizens are in awe to discover we are not doing enough to showcase these nostalgic edifices.
November 28, 2022 #ancientartifcats #spanishtown #HiddenTreasures #historical artifacts
