Barbados Museum & Historical Society, The Garrison, St. Michael, Barbados Pocket Guide

Barbados Museum and Historical Society

The Barbados Museum sits quite impressively on the outskirts of the Garrison Savannah in the parish of St. Michael. Its current location was once the home of the former British Military Prison and became the Headquarters of the Barbados Museum and Historical Society in 1930. A bit of history to note is that the prison's top floor was built in 1817 and the bottom floor was built in 1853.
 
This building is not only historical in stature but also houses a wealth of history and art that are all accessible to the general public of Barbados and visitors alike. Trips down memory lane are tapped into once one walks through the doors of the Barbados Museum and becomes exposed to Barbados' military history, geographic nature, rare historical maps, eighteenth-century plantation house furniture, African Heritage and even artefacts from the Amerindians who were the early inhabitants of the Caribbean islands. Children of all ages can enjoy the interactive Jairus Brewster Children's Gallery, which is geared towards those interested in science, technology and other STEM disciplines. It's an opportunity to engage their senses of sight, touch, smell and hearing as they play with the interactive exhibits.
 
While on the island of Barbados, you are more than welcome to take a trip to the Barbados Museum where you can register as a volunteer and participate in the many activities available. You can also become an official member of the Museum, which gives you access to the onsite Shilstone Memorial research library and a range of other benefits. Take a piece of Barbados with you when you buy 100% Bajan-made items from the Museum Shop. In-store, you will find a range of local books, souvenirs, jewellery, prints and other trinkets which make for unique keepsakes or gifts!  
 
The Classic Card Collection is another treat that includes a series of greeting cards that are made up of six different images from the Museum's classic art collection. This collection includes reproductions of many of the paintings, prints and maps that are on display along with West Indian books. 
 
The Barbados Museum and Historical Society is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and closed on Sundays. Barbadians upon presentation of identification pay the following - Adults BDS $12 and children BDS $10; while visitors to the island pay the following: Adults BDS $20 & Children BDS $12. It's also important to note that group rates are also available at the Barbados Museum as well as Historic Walking Tours to the Garrison, Bridgetown & Speightstown. The majestic gardens and cobbled stone courtyards of the Barbados Museum can also create an idyllic setting for a range of events including weddings, lectures, movie nights, concerts and so much more.
 
Click here for further information on The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, St. Ann's Garrison, St. Michael or kindly call them at Tel: (246) 538-0201.