Barbados Museum & Historical Society
- The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, located in the Garrison Historic Area of Bridgetown, is one of the island’s most significant cultural institutions. Housed in a former 19th-century British military prison, the museum preserves and showcases Barbados’ rich history, spanning from its indigenous peoples to its colonial past and modern-day development. Founded in 1933, the museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the island’s heritage through a diverse collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibitions.
- The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Barbadian natural history, African heritage, colonial life, and the island’s role in the transatlantic trade. One of the highlights is the African Gallery, which explores the impact of African culture on Barbadian society, particularly during and after the era of slavery. The museum also features a collection of antique maps, historical documents, and photographs that provide insight into the island’s development over the centuries.
- In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society frequently hosts rotating exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events that engage both locals and tourists. The museum is also home to an extensive research library, making it an invaluable resource for historians and scholars interested in Caribbean history.
- Set within the UNESCO-listed Garrison Historic Area, the museum is surrounded by other historical landmarks, including George Washington House and the Garrison Savannah. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about Barbados' past, a visit to the Barbados Museum offers a deeper understanding of the island’s cultural evolution and its place in Caribbean history.