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Codd's House Monument: A Symbol of Emancipation

Commemorating Barbados' journey to emancipation and self-governance, Codd's House Monument marks a pivotal site in the island's history.

Codd's House Monument in Bridgetown, Barbados, commemorates the site of the former Codd's House, which served as the New Town Hall and Parliament from 1837 to 1849. It stands as a reminder of the island's journey toward emancipation, as the 1838 Emancipation Act, which ended the apprenticeship system and granted full freedom to formerly enslaved people, was passed here.

A brief summary to Codd's House Monument

Local tips

  • Visit the monument as part of a walking tour of Bridgetown to explore other nearby historical landmarks.
  • Take a moment to reflect on the historical significance of the site and its role in Barbados's journey toward emancipation.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the Montefiore Fountain, located directly across the street from the monument.
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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 onto Coleridge Street. The monument will be on your right, across from the Montefiore Fountain. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Bridgetown. From the Fairchild Street or Princess Alice Highway terminals, walk towards Broad Street and then to Coleridge Street. The monument is a short walk from the main bus stops. A one-way bus fare is BBD 3.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from the Grantley Adams International Airport to Bridgetown costs approximately BBD 74. From other locations in Bridgetown, a short taxi ride to Codd's House Monument should cost around BBD 20, plus BBD 3.8 per kilometer. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Codd's House Monument

Codd's House Monument, located on Coleridge Street in Bridgetown, Barbados, marks the location of the former Codd's House, a building of significant historical importance. From 1837 to 1849, the government leased the building from William Codd to serve as the New Town Hall and Parliament. During this time, it was the center of Barbadian governance, witnessing debates and decisions that shaped the island's future. The most significant event to occur at Codd's House was the passage of the 1838 Emancipation Act, which ended the apprenticeship system and granted full freedom to thousands of formerly enslaved people in Barbados. The monument, therefore, stands as a symbol of freedom and the triumph over adversity. Codd's House also holds significance as the location where Bridgetown was declared the island's 12th constituency in 1840. This led to Samuel Jackman Prescod becoming the first non-white Barbadian elected to the House of Assembly for Bridgetown in 1843. In 1847, Codd's House became home to the island's first public library, predating the first Public Libraries Act in Britain by three years. The original Codd's House was demolished in 1985. A commemorative monument and plaza were later constructed to honor the historical significance of the site. The monument features a classical rotunda with Ionic columns and a majestic dome with a skylight.

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