Exploring Barbadian Heritage at the Exchange Museum
Discover Barbados' captivating past at the Exchange Museum: trade, currency, education, and Freemasonry in a historic landmark.
Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown, the Exchange Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the multifaceted history of Barbados. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored 18th-century building on Spry Street. This building has a rich past, having served as Harrison's Free School (later Harrison College) from 1745 to 1871, providing education to underprivileged boys. In 1871, the Freemasons acquired the property, adding a third story and utilizing it as a Masonic Temple until 2005. The Central Bank of Barbados purchased the building in 2005, transforming it into the Exchange Interactive Centre, which opened in January 2018. The museum's exhibits are designed to be engaging and informative, appealing to visitors of all ages. The Currency Exhibition explores the development of business and trade in Bridgetown, highlighting the city's contributions to the world since the 1700s. Visitors can learn about early Black business owners and discover the history of currency in Barbados and the Caribbean. The exhibition also showcases the evolution of the Central Bank of Barbados and its role in the island's economic development. Upstairs, visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the building's past. One gallery recreates a classroom from the 1950s, offering a nostalgic look at education in Barbados during that era. Another exhibit delves into the history of Freemasonry in Barbados, shedding light on the organization's influence on the island's social and political landscape.
Local tips
- Explore the interactive exhibits to fully engage with the history of trade, currency, and education in Barbados.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the museum's collections and the history of the building.
- Visit the museum's art gallery to view temporary exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
A brief summary to Exchange Museum
- Spry Street Bridgetown, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB11048, BB
- +1246-227-8148
Getting There
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Walking
The Exchange Museum is located on Spry Street in Bridgetown, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the center of Bridgetown, such as National Heroes Square, walk east along Broad Street, then turn right onto Spry Street. The museum is a short walk away, located in the Central Bank of Barbados courtyard. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Exchange Museum is accessible via public transport. Barbados Transport Board buses stop near the museum. From the Fairchild Street or Princess Alice bus terminals, the museum is a short walk. The standard bus fare is BDS$3.50.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown. A taxi from the Bridgetown Harbour to the Exchange Museum will cost approximately BDS$19. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your ride.
