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Stokes Hall Great House: A Glimpse into Jamaica's Colonial Past

Explore the ruins of Stokes Hall Great House in St. Thomas, Jamaica, and step back in time to discover its colonial history and panoramic views.

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Stokes Hall Great House, located near Duckenfield in St. Thomas, Jamaica, is a historical site offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Built by Luke Stokes, a former governor of Nevis, in the 17th century, the great house stands in ruin after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1907. The ruins consist of three remaining towers, the foundations of the kitchen outhouse, and a water tank.

A brief summary to Stokes Hall Great House

  • WPCJ+732, Duckenfield, JM

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the architecture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Check local schedules for any cultural events or guided tours that may be taking place.
  • Engage with locals to learn more about the history and significance of the Great House.
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Getting There

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Stokes Hall Great House via public transportation from St. Thomas Lowlands, take a local bus heading towards Duckenfield. Buses frequently depart from the main bus terminal. The fare is approximately $200 Jamaican dollars (USD $1.30). Inform the driver of your destination, and they will drop you off close to WPCJ+732. From there, it's a short walk to the Great House.

  • Walking

    If you're already in the Duckenfield area, you can walk to Stokes Hall Great House. Start at the nearest main road and head towards WPCJ+732. The Great House is located approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the main road, and you will easily spot it as you approach.

  • Car

    If driving from the main road in St. Thomas Lowlands, head east on the A4 highway and continue for approximately 15 minutes. Look for signs towards Duckenfield. Once you reach the Duckenfield area, turn onto the road marked WPCJ+732. Stokes Hall Great House will be on your right. Note that parking might be limited, so plan accordingly.

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Discover more about Stokes Hall Great House

Stokes Hall Great House, situated in the parish of St. Thomas, Jamaica, offers a compelling journey into the island's rich colonial history. Built by Luke Stokes, a former governor of Nevis, sometime after the English conquest in 1655, the great house was strategically fortified, reflecting the turbulent times. The location was initially called Hato de Morante by the Spanish before Stokes renamed it Stokesfield. Like many early Jamaican great houses, Stokes Hall was constructed as much a fortress as a residence. Its thick walls, some two feet in width, featured loopholes for firing cannons and muskets. Corner towers, reaching nearly thirty feet, provided extensive views of the surrounding landscape. The house was also designed for comfortable living, boasting large bedrooms and other conveniences. Stokes Hall was part of a larger estate that became a prosperous sugar plantation, symbolizing early English colonization. However, the initial settlers faced immense hardship, succumbing to diseases like malaria and yellow fever. After the death of Luke Stokes and his wife, survivors relocated to higher ground, where they built Stokes Hall Great House. In historical documents, Stokes Hall is sometimes referred to as "Stokes Hall Slave House" because it was built by slaves brought from Nevis by Luke Stokes. Today, the great house stands in ruin, a consequence of the devastating 1907 earthquake. The ruins include three towers, the foundations of the kitchen outhouse, and a water tank. The remaining structure is made of concreted rock rubble faced with dressed stone, with traces of stucco coating still visible. From the vantage point of Stokes Hall, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding river delta covered with sugar cane, the Duckenfield Hall sugar mill in the distance, and the Blue Mountains to the north.

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