By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste
Ever wondered about the history of your parish? Discover it firsthand at the We Gatherin’ 2025 Heritage Centres.
These Heritage Centres are immersive community spaces geared towards celebrating the rich history, traditions and spirit of Barbados. As part of the We Gatherin’ 2025 campaign, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. has created these unique community spaces across the island to honour our collective past. These Centres celebrate the richness of Bajan history, traditions and local pride, all rooted in the specific stories of each parish.
Over the last few months, these Heritage Centres were in iconic spots across the island, such as Harrison’s Cave, St. Lucy Parish Church Hall, Hillcrest Community Centre, St. Elizabeth Community Centre, St. John Parish Church Hall. In June, the Heritage Centre was located at, The Valley Resource Centre, The Glebem St. George and offered visitors a blend of historical exhibits and personal stories that reflect the soul of the community. For those living abroad and visiting, these Centres offer a look into the past and are an invitation to come home and reconnect.
Project Lead for the Heritage Centres at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. Madge Dalrymple, noted “These Centres hold a special place in our hearts. They are not just about preserving history, but about rekindling connections. The Centres are mounted within a community of each parish and are being utilised by residents as well as visitors as information gathering and sharing spaces. Each one serves as a bridge between generations, ensuring the stories of our people are preserved, honoured and passed on.”
What to Expect?
Each Centre offers a 30-minute exhibition featuring historical and anecdotal information, visual displays and interactive elements like a large map of Barbados, where visitors can stamp a message at the parish, they feel most connected to and replicas of cherished Bajan symbols, including a village standpipe, a washing tub with a juking board and a bench with a bus stop.
The Centres are ideal for the local who wishes to reminisce on the past or a visitor who is discovering our customs for the first time. The Centres provide a meaningful, memorable experience that also gives guests a keepsake brochure featuring highlights from the exhibit to take home.
Beyond learning and connection, the Centres create an enhanced visitor experience and encourages exploration of nearby shops, eateries and attractions.
These hubs are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. are staffed by friendly personnel from the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. who are ready to guide your journey through Barbados’ vibrant past.
Come gather, remember and celebrate with us! Your story is part of ours.
