Codd's House Monument, Bridgetown Travel Guide

Explore Codd's House Monument in Bridgetown, Barbados, a historical landmark commemorating the site where slavery's end was proclaimed and Barbadian democracy took root, offering a serene reflection on the island's past.

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Codd's House Monument

Codd's House Monument, situated on Coleridge Street in Bridgetown, Barbados, marks the location of the former Codd's House, a building of significant historical importance. From 1837 to 1849, the house was leased to the government and served as the New Town Hall and the meeting place for Parliament. It was here, in 1838, that the Act was passed to fully emancipate enslaved people in Barbados, ending the apprenticeship system. Today, the monument stands as a reminder of this pivotal moment in Barbadian history, as well as the site's earlier use as a Quaker burial ground. Visitors can reflect on the island's colonial past and the steps taken towards freedom and equality. The monument's location in Bridgetown makes it easily accessible and a worthwhile stop for those exploring the city's historical landmarks, offering a serene space for contemplation amidst the bustling city.

A brief summary to Codd's House Monument

Coleridge St, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Codd's House Monument.

Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic district to see other nearby landmarks like the Montefiore Fountain and the Nidhe Israel Synagogue.
Ask locals for stories about the monument to gain deeper insights into its historical significance.

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Getting There

Walking

If you are already in Bridgetown, walking to Codd's House Monument is straightforward. From Broad Street, head east towards Coleridge Street. Turn left onto Coleridge Street, and the monument will be on your right, across from the Montefiore Fountain. The walk is relatively short and allows you to take in the local scenery.
Public Transport

To reach Codd's House Monument via public transport, take a bus to Bridgetown. From the main bus terminals (Fairchild Street or Princess Alice Terminal), walk east towards Broad Street, then turn left onto Coleridge Street. The monument will be on your right. Bus fare is BDS$3.50. The nearest bus stop to Coleridge Street is the Old Public Library, which is a 1-minute walk away.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in Bridgetown to Codd's House Monument is a convenient option. Simply provide the driver with the address on Coleridge Street. The fare should be relatively inexpensive, typically around BDS$15-20 for a short trip within the city. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Discover more about Codd's House Monument

Codd's House Monument, located in the heart of Bridgetown, Barbados, stands as a poignant reminder of the island's complex history and its journey towards emancipation. The monument commemorates the site of the former Codd's House, a building that played a crucial role in Barbadian governance and the abolition of slavery. William Codd, a local businessman, owned two houses along Coleridge Street. The larger of these was leased to the Barbadian government from 1837 to 1849 to serve as the New Town Hall, alleviating the pressure on the original Town Hall. During this period, both chambers of Parliament convened at Codd's House, witnessing significant legislative events. The most notable event to occur at Codd's House was the passing of the Act of May 1838, which terminated the Apprenticeship System. This act marked the final step in the full emancipation of formerly enslaved people in Barbados, building upon the government's initial Emancipation Act of 1834. The monument, therefore, stands as a symbol of freedom and the end of a dark chapter in the island's history. Beyond its role in emancipation, Codd's House also contributed to Bridgetown's political landscape. In 1840, a statute was enacted that designated Bridgetown as the island's 12th constituency. This led to the election of Samuel Jackman Prescod, the first non-white Barbadian, to the House of Assembly for the city in 1843, marking a significant step towards greater representation and inclusivity in Barbadian politics. Codd's House also played a role in the development of public education in Barbados. In 1847, legislation was passed to establish a Public Library in Bridgetown, predating the first Public Libraries Act in Britain by three years. The Public Library was initially housed in Codd's House before moving to the Public Buildings in 1874, highlighting the building's importance in fostering literacy and knowledge dissemination. After serving as the Water Works Headquarters until 1972, Codd's House was demolished in 1985, and the site was transformed into a parking area. This parking area, however, covered an early Quaker cemetery, adding another layer of historical significance to the location. Quakers began arriving in Barbados in the mid-1650s, and by 1680, there were more than 1,000 Quakers in Barbados. Prior to their migration to Pennsylvania, Barbados had more Quakers than any other English colony. Today, the Codd's House Monument features a classical rotunda with Ionic columns and a majestic dome with a skylight. Elevated on a circular podium and set within a green space with cabbage palms and shade trees, the monument serves as a heritage symbol within the Synagogue Historic District. Across the street from the Montefiore Fountain, the monument stands as a reminder of the events that occurred on this site. Visiting Codd's House Monument offers a chance to reflect on the complexities of Barbadian history, the struggles for freedom and equality, and the evolution of the island's political and social landscape. It is a place to honor the individuals who fought for a better future and to remember the importance of preserving and learning from the past. The monument is easily accessible and provides a serene space for contemplation amidst the bustling city.