Morant Bay Courthouse

Morant Bay Court House, St. Thomas, second half of the 18th century; scene of the Morant Bay Rebellion's terrible conclusion in 1865.

The Morant Bay Courthouse, the site of the Morant Bay Rebellion in 1865, is one of the most important structures in the island's history, although it has been damaged by several fires, the most recent in 2007.

It is one of the most beautiful historical sites in Jamaica. It is now a burned-out ruin, but a recent structural inspection by two FGSJ experts determined that the shell is sound and that a restoration is entirely possible. In 2010, a FGSJ tour group toured the ruin, and we were in contact with the Jamaica National Heritage Trust about plans to repair the courthouse. If the restoration is successful, the FGSJ expects to be able to fund this vital effort. Experience has repeatedly proven that restoring a historic building and giving it a role appreciated by the local community increases the likelihood of it being cared for and looked for.

Location: Church Corner, Jamaica