Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Fortress with a Story

Fort Shirley, located in Dominica's Cabrits National Park, is a unique and intriguing historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the island's European past. Constructed by the British in 1765, the fort was a key defense in the Lesser Antilles during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its primary purpose was to defend against invasions, especially from the French. The fort was named for Sir Thomas Shirley, Governor of the Leeward Islands at the time. The fort's Georgian architecture, designed by Fraser and Bruce, utilized the natural defense provided by the volcanic crater. It was part of a defense network including forts in several Caribbean islands. From 1778 to 1784, the fort was extended by the French during their occupation of Dominica. The fort consisted of more than 50 buildings, including seven gun batteries, seven cisterns, powder magazines, and ordnance storehouses, as well as barracks that could house over 600 men. Fort Shirley is also notable for the 1802 rebellion of slave soldiers from the 8th West India Regiment, which contributed to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire by 1807. African soldiers, who were recruited as slaves and stationed at Fort Shirley, mutinied and took over the garrison for three days. They did so in protest of poor conditions, lack of pay, and fears of being sold back into slavery. With the end of hostilities between Britain and France, the garrison became obsolete and was finally abandoned in 1854. From 1982, Dominican historian and anthropologist, Dr. Lennox Honychurch, devoted much time and effort to restoring sections of Fort Shirley. The parts which have been restored are the Officers' Quarters, the Soldiers' Barracks, Powder Magazine, Ordnance Store, Guard House, and Ramparts. The restored Officer's Quarters has already become a venue for receptions, conferences, lectures, and similar activities. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the fort's history. Take a moment to climb the walls, look out from a row of cannons, and imagine setting your sight on ships slowly drifting into range.