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The Chase VaultThe history of the Chase vault located in the graveyard of the Christ Church Parish Church on the island of Barbados is one filled with mystery and intrigue, even though the consequential events have long ceased.
The vault was built partially underground in 1724. It was not put to use immediately and remained "in waiting" until 1807. In the following year, 1808, a family by the name of Chase, came into possession of the vault, thus the current name. There were a wealthy and important family in Barbados and it was reputed that the head of the family, Thomas Chase was highly unpopular, perhaps even hated by many persons on the island.
Starting with Thomas Chase's young daughter in 1808, all appeared well and she was buried in peace. Subsequently another family member was buried and it was there that the unusual occurrences started to surface. It was in 1812, when the patriarch Thomas, was interred, the caskets, which were normally manufactured out of lead, were in complete disarray. The first consideration was that of mischief and vandalism. The ensuing answer was to replace all the caskets and resealed the entrance to the vault with what might be considered an almost impenetrable material: a marble slab.
There being no reasonable explanation, the vault was totally abandoned and the coffins therein were re-located. To this day, the Chase Vault structure remains vacant in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados… What a tangled web!
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Your Ultimate Guide To Barbados
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Barbados Pocket Guide
Welcome to the Barbados Pocket Guide, a comprehensive source of information about our island, it's people, culture and life in general. We also have tons of information on places to stay, flights, car hire and tours of the island, all here! Enjoy visiting our site and please feel free to write a comment or send us a message directly with articles you think we need to add.
Things To Do!
Island Safari
Island Safari offers a unique jeep safari experience on our zebra striped, specially designed 4x4 jeeps. Climb on board our comfortable cabs and let us show you what the others leave out, specifically the most scenic locations of the island by travelling on and off the beaten track.
Harrison's Cave
Explore Barbados' underground! At the heart of the island lies a great geological wonder, the magnificent Harrison's Cave. Admire the crystallized, limestone cave, its flowing streams, deep pools and towering columns as you travel by tram or get up close and personal with the Eco-Adventure Tour.
Catamaran Cruise
Lay back, relax and sunbathe as you sail across the calm Caribbean Sea. Explore the crystal clear waters as you swim and snorkel with the tropical fish and majestic turtles. Then, enjoy a scrumptious lunch as you admire the beautiful rolling coastline and sparkling water.
Mount Gay Visitor Centre
Make a stop at the world renowned Mount Gay Rum Distillery and discover the secrets behind Barbados’ finest and most celebrated spirit, in the island where rum was invented! Witness the history of Mount Gay as you journey with them through their rich heritage, proven artisanship and unique taste.
SunTours Special
Grab the SunTours Special with SunTours Barbados and see all the most popular spots in Barbados! Immerse yourself in the interesting history of this island, view the most picturesque scenes and enjoy a delicious Bajan style lunch at a well favoured local spot.
Animal Flower Cave
The colourful walls and the fascinating sea anemones at the Animal Flower Cave draw a crowd, but the amazing pools, some of which are deep enough to swim in, are the real attraction. While here, take a stroll over to the cliffs to feel the refreshing sea breeze and take in the stunning seascape.
When there was cause to reopen the vault in 1816, every single coffin bar one had been disrupted, which left an uncanny feeling. Between 1816 and 1820, this occurred on a few more occasions; however 1820 was the turning point. In April of that year, when the vault was re-opened, all the seals which had been placed on the last occasion were confirmed to have been intact, yet still all the caskets were in a state of massive confusion. There was absolutely no evidence or sign of other aggravated means, such as flooding or any other form of 
Check Out Our Restaurants
Chefette - $
A favourite for Bajans, this fast food restaurant with 15 locations across the country, is a must try!
Oistins Fish Fry - $
Visit Oistins Fish Fry, especially on Fridays and Saturdays for a deliciously cultural experience.
Salt Café - $$
From the popular truffle fries and baos to the delicious salted caramel brownie, their menu delights all foodies.
Cocktail Kitchen - $$
Located in St. Lawrence Gap, one of the best night life areas of Barbados, Cocktail Kitchen is redefining Caribbean cuisine and cocktails.
Tides Restaurant - $$$
The Tides Restaurant is one of the leading restaurants located on the water’s edge of the West coast of Barbados. Bring to life any celebration or simply brighten your trip to Barbados through the culinary and service experience provided by The Tides Restaurant and its team!
Champers Restaurant - $$$
Experience Champers – where a special combination of delicious food, consistently good service with romantic picturesque views of the waterside resides.