Local Perspective of St. Thomas

Parish of St. Thomas

Locals' Perspective of St. Thomas

Although  the parish of St. Thomas is a neighboring parish of Kingston, it is generally not among the top destinations for visitors. Yet the parish has a proud history for there the Morant Bay rebellion against slavery took place in the 1800s, led by Paul Bogle and George William Gordon, two of the country’s national heroes. 

I visited Thomas recently with two locals Shola and Victor to learn about their love for this parish. For them St. Thomas hardly makes news because of its tranquility.

There time seems to stop and everyone lives at an unhurried pace.  But under the surface of this calm in St. Thomas vibrant children and youth are actively involved in community and sports activities throughout the parish. Youth events are always taking place, just ask a young person when next you visit.

St. Thomas may seem underdeveloped, but to them it’s unspoiled beauty and protected wild life is distinctive.  Nowhere else are there ponds like the Yallahs Salt Ponds. These relatively shallow ponds host an array of animal life including crocodiles.  Depending on the weather the ponds change color and odor…so be careful when you visit.

Having Sunday picnic by the rivers in St. Thomas is a major pastime for locals and Reggae Falls is one of the hotspots.

The Bath fountain and spa is among the best mineral baths on offer.  Active in the water are lime, magnesium and sulphur, which many find beneficial for healing various health problems. 

The sea is never far away. In several locations on St. Thomas' coastline you will find pleasant beachside bars to relax while having a drink.

For more on St. Thomas: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Thomas_Parish,_Jamaica

https://jis.gov.jm/information/parish-profiles/parish-profiles-st-thomas/

http://www.jnht.com/st_thomas.php

Also visit our art gallery:  https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

Updated July 2020

revised October 2017