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Barbados Museum & Historical Society: A Journey Through Time

Explore over 500,000 artifacts at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, housed in a historic military prison in Bridgetown's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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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. It offers a comprehensive look at Barbadian life from prehistoric times to the present day.

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. A bus ride from Bridgetown to the Garrison area costs approximately $1 - $2 BBD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A taxi ride from a central Bridgetown location, such as the cruise terminal or a major hotel, to the Barbados Museum on Dalkeith Road will typically cost between $14 to $20 BBD.

  • 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.

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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. This unique setting adds to the atmosphere, offering visitors a tangible connection to the island's past. The museum's origins trace back to the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, founded by Mr. Eustace Maxwell Shilstone, with a mission to document and preserve the island's history. Today, the museum boasts a collection of over 500,000 artifacts, providing 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, tracing the footsteps of the Amerindian peoples and the seismic shift to a plantation society marked by African enslavement. 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. Visitors can also explore galleries dedicated to the island's natural history, military history, and decorative arts. The Military Gallery pays tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Barbados' armed forces, displaying regalia, armaments, medals, and photographs. Beyond exhibitions, the museum offers a gift shop with local books, art, and crafts, and the Shilstone Memorial Library for research. The museum also engages with the community through educational programs, cultural events, and guided tours.

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