This day pays homage to the acquisition of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776, declaring the USA independent from Great Britain.
The British Empire was awash with the hustle and bustle of commercial activities that provided opportunities for two major trade centres in both Bridgetown, Barbados and Boston in the USA. Both of which had connections to London. The geographical position of Barbados and its trade winds easily aided in the transportation process of ships to and from Europe, America and Africa.
A smooth movement of migrants and commerce transpired between Barbados and the American British colonies and it was throughout this time in 1660 that a group of investors recognised as the Society of Barbados Adventures, set up a first settlement near what is now known as Wilmington, North Carolina and later at Charleston, South Carolina. The first Governors of these colonies came from Barbados and this led to further migration which opened up an extensive blend of cultures. Today, millions of Americans have deep-rooted historical connections to Barbados, inclusive of an astonishing amount of esteemed American families.
An initial account of how Independence Day in the USA would be commemorated was seen in a letter from John Adams to his wife Abigail on July 3rd, 1776 where he described "pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations" throughout the United States. It is no wonder that the political freedom Americans feel today, is celebrated with such grandeur.
Surely by now, you must be wondering what is the possible correlation between July 4th & Barbados.
Here we go - George Washington was the first President of the USA and Commanding General during the American Revolution. History takes us back to 1751, when at the age of 19, he and his unwell brother Lawrence, sailed into Barbados & stayed over a 2 month period at Bush Hill House, a Georgian-styled house located on the grounds of the now historic Bridgetown and its Garrison and surroundedby other
We take pride in sharing with you that Barbados and Bush Hill House (renamed George Washington House) are the only places outside of the USA that this future "First Father" stayed.
The house and remote buildings have been refurbished as a result of a partnership between The Bush Hill Tourism Trust Inc. and the Barbados National Trust. This renewed heritage site recognises the part Barbados played in the settlement of America.
The Barbados Garrison Historic Area contains a network of well-preserved sites of historical and architectural interest which aid in telling a well-told story of the largest British military complex built in the Caribbean. Also located in these historic environs is the historic Savannah Beach Hotel. Great Britain's colonial architecture was rampant in Barbados from as early as the 17th century so it's easy to understand why this hotel is so roped into the anatomy of its environs.
We in Barbados wish the United States of America & Americans everywhere, Happy 4th of July.
How do you plan on celebrating?
Statue of George Washington, George Washington House, Barbados
18th Century Pewter Plates from a Set That Was Said to Have Belonged Originally to George Washington
These Walls Still Have the Original Brickwork, George Washington House, Barbados
The Original Wooden Beams Still Intact at George Washington House, Barbados
Artefacts in the kitchen at George Washington House
1751 Dinner Setting at George Washington House, Barbados
The Desk Where George Washington's Brother Lawrence Would Sit & Write
Antique Map of Barbados and St. Kitts at George Washington House, Barbados
Laundry Sink and Jooking Board of Years Gone By, George Washington House, Barbados
Mortar and Pestle at George Washington House, Barbados
Could This Old Wooden Axe be the One Used to Cut Down George Washington's Father's Cherry Tree? :):):)
Dripstones at George Washington House, Barbados
Canon at George Washington House, Barbados
Inscription on Canon at George Washington House, Barbados
These tunnels are over 150 years old and were rediscovered during the restoration of George Washington House. They stretch approximately 2 miles under the area of the historic Garrison, St. Michael, Barbados
The now renovated George Washington House on the grounds of Historic Bridgetown & its Garrison
