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Codd's House Monument: A Symbol of Emancipation

Commemorating Barbados' journey to emancipation, Codd's House Monument marks a pivotal site of freedom and governance in the heart of Bridgetown.

Codd's House Monument in Bridgetown, Barbados, marks the site of the former Codd's House, a building of significant historical importance. It served as the New Town Hall and Parliament from 1837 to 1849. The monument commemorates the end of the apprenticeship system and the fight for emancipation, representing freedom and triumph over adversity.

A brief summary to Codd's House Monument

Local tips

  • Visit the monument as part of a walking tour of Bridgetown to fully appreciate its historical context within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Montefiore Fountain and Nidhe Israel Synagogue to explore the Synagogue Historic District.
  • Take a moment to reflect in the serene green space surrounding the monument, contemplating the historical narratives that have shaped Barbados.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Codd's House Monument is centrally located in Bridgetown and easily accessible on foot. From National Heroes Square, walk east along Broad Street, then turn left onto Coleridge Street. The monument will be on your left, across from the Montefiore Fountain. The walk is approximately 5-15 minutes, allowing you to take in the sights of Bridgetown.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Codd's House Monument by public transport, take any bus heading to Bridgetown. Buses operated by the Barbados Transport Board are blue with a yellow stripe, while privately owned minibuses are yellow with a blue stripe and ZR vans are white with a maroon stripe. All buses will drop you off at one of the main bus terminals in Bridgetown. From the Fairchild Street terminal, walk east along Broad Street, then turn left onto Coleridge Street. The monument will be on your left, across from the Montefiore Fountain. The bus fare is $3.50 BBD. Ensure you have local currency, as foreign coins are not accepted on Transport Board buses.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. Ask the driver to take you to Codd's House Monument on Coleridge Street in Bridgetown. Taxis are identified by the 'Z' designation on their license plates. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip. A short taxi ride within Bridgetown should cost approximately $10-$15 USD (20-30 BBD). Tipping your driver 10% of your agreed-upon fare is customary if you enjoyed their service. US Dollars are also accepted in taxis, the conversion rate between Barbados and US dollars is 2:1.

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Discover more about Codd's House Monument

Codd's House Monument, located on Coleridge Street in Bridgetown, Barbados, stands as a reminder of the island's journey towards emancipation and self-governance. The monument marks the location of the former Codd's House, which played a crucial role in shaping the social and political landscape of Barbados in the 19th century. William T. Codd, a local businessman, owned two houses along Coleridge Street, and the government rented the larger one from 1837 to 1849 to serve as the new “Town Hall” or Parliament. During this time, both chambers of government convened here, witnessing debates and decisions that shaped the island's future. One of the most significant events to occur at Codd's House was the passing of the Act of May 1838, which terminated the Apprenticeship System. This act represented the final step in proclaiming full emancipation for thousands of previously enslaved Barbadians. The monument, therefore, stands as a symbol of freedom and the triumph over adversity. In 1847, an Act was passed establishing a Public Library in Bridgetown, which was initially housed in Codd's House before moving to the Public Buildings in 1874. Sadly, the original Codd's House was demolished in 1985, and the site was briefly used as a parking area. Recognizing the historical importance of the location, a commemorative monument and plaza were constructed as a central feature of a new master plan. The design incorporates a classical rotunda with Ionic columns and a majestic dome with a skylight. The monument is set within a green space, featuring cabbage palms and other shade trees, providing a serene and contemplative environment.

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