Codd's House Monument: A Symbol of Barbadian History

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.