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Fort Haldane: A Sentinel Over Port Maria

Explore Fort Haldane in Port Maria: a historic fort offering stunning views and a glimpse into Jamaica's colonial past.

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Perched on a hill overlooking Port Maria, Fort Haldane is an 18th-century fortification named after Governor General George Haldane. Built in 1759, it once protected the harbor from Spanish raids and served as a garrison to control the enslaved and working classes. Today, its remaining cannons and stone structures offer panoramic views and a glimpse into Jamaica's colonial past.

A brief summary to Fort Haldane

  • 94H5+HMF, Port Maria, JM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Port Maria and the coastline.
  • Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Port Maria, Fort Haldane is a relatively short walk uphill. Head north from the town square, following the road that ascends towards the fort. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes, offering views of the town and coastline as you climb. There are no specific costs involved in walking to the fort.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Port Maria. A short taxi ride from the town center to Fort Haldane will cost approximately JMD 500-800. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The ride is quick, taking only about 5-10 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Fort Haldane

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Discover more about Fort Haldane

Fort Haldane, situated near Port Maria in St. Mary, Jamaica, was erected in 1759 and named in honor of General George Haldane, the Governor of Jamaica. The fort's strategic position on a hill provided a wide view of the old shipping port of Port Maria, which was once surrounded by sugar estates like Llanrumney and Trinity. Constructed to defend the harbor from Spanish raids, Fort Haldane also functioned as a garrison to maintain control over the enslaved and working populations of St. Mary. The fort played a role in Tacky's Rebellion in 1760, when runaway slaves seized gunpowder and firearms from the fort. Fort Haldane was in active service until 1780 when a hurricane damaged its storerooms and barracks. With the decline of Spanish threats, the garrison was relocated to Ocho Rios. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, including the cannons, and enjoy the scenic vistas of the Caribbean Sea.

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