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Barbados Museum & Historical Society: A Journey Through Time

Explore Barbados' captivating past at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, housed in a historic military prison in Bridgetown.

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Housed in a 19th-century former British military prison, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society in Bridgetown showcases the island's rich history and culture through diverse exhibits and artifacts. Explore galleries dedicated to social history, fine art, and the island's African heritage.

A brief summary to Barbados Museum & Historical Society

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekdays for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the rich history of Barbados.
  • Explore the Shilstone Memorial Library within the museum for valuable insights into West Indian documents and family history research.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal in Bridgetown, several bus routes serve Dalkeith Road, where the museum is located. Look for buses 11, 27, or 33. The bus fare is typically around $2 BBD. The nearest bus stop to the Museum is Sda, which is a 3-minute walk away.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A taxi ride from a central Bridgetown location to the Barbados Museum on Dalkeith Road will typically cost between $15 to $20 BBD. Confirm the fare before beginning your journey.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Garrison area or near the city center, walking to the Barbados Museum is a viable option. From the Garrison Savannah, walk along Dalkeith Road, heading east.

  • Car

    If driving from anywhere in Saint Thomas, head west on the main road towards Bridgetown. Follow the signs for Bridgetown until you reach the roundabout near Queen's Park. Take the second exit at the roundabout onto Dalkeith Road. The Barbados Museum & Historical Society will be on your left after approximately 1 mile. Parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Barbados Museum & Historical Society

The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, established in 1933, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Barbados. Located on Dalkeith Road in Bridgetown, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century former British military prison, offering visitors a tangible connection to the island's past. The museum's exhibits showcase the history, culture, and natural heritage of Barbados. With over 500,000 artifacts, the museum provides a comprehensive look at Barbadian history from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum features several permanent collection galleries, each offering a unique perspective on Barbadian history and culture. The Jubilee Gallery explores the island's pre-historic origins and historic evolution. The Warmington Gallery recreates the opulent lifestyle of a colonial Barbados plantation house, showcasing exquisite glassware, ceramics, silver, and fine art textiles from the 18th and 19th centuries. Other galleries are dedicated to the island's natural history, military history, decorative arts, and African heritage. Visitors can also explore the Shilstone Memorial Library, which houses a rare collection of historical maps, manuscripts, and genealogical records. The museum also acquired the Newton Slave Burial Ground in 1993, serving as an important site of memory and reflection on Barbados' enslaved past.

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