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Emancipation Park, JamaicaA Living Tribute to the History of the Jamaican People and CultureEmancipation Park is dedicated to highlighting the history, culture and flora of Jamaica. The park's design and statues celebrate the island's emancipation from slavery.
Jamaica’s newest park in New Kingston is still drawing attention almost six years after it was first opened in 2002. Aptly named Emancipation Park as a tribute to the slaves whose lives are intrinsically intertwined with the island, this is not just a regular park. It is a living, breathing testament to the history of the people and the cultures that combine to make Jamaica, well, Jamaica. There is something about Emancipation Park that touches a chord of nationalistic pride. The beauty of the design is only a part of the allure; the story being told with fountains, statues and symbols is like touching pieces of history. Even the name tells a story, Emancipation Park - freedom from bondage. The mixed ethnicity of the Jamaican people is captured by the two-headed crocodiles, (representing "Unity in Diversity"), set in a plaque by the ceremonial entrance. Most of the material used in building the park is indigenous to the country. This includes some of the stones used to erect the buildings, which were taken from a little district in Westmoreland called Haddo. Redemption Song Monument– Focal Point Reggae icon, Bob Marley’s song, "Redemption Song", was the inspiration for the main statue, the piece de resistance, which replaced the original statute, “Independent Monument”. The piece, is 11 feet depicting a nude male and female standing on a base with water flowing over the base, was done by artist Laura Facey who won the Emancipation Park/NHT design contest. It took Facey over five months to complete the piece with the assistance of over 100 artisans and engineers. The male figure weighs 2000 pounds while the female is 1300 pounds. The monument invokes different feelings in each viewer, with some finding it offensive while others admire it for its artistic purity. The artist’s own interpretation is that the purity of water washes away the pain and struggles of slavery while the dome is representative of life. The unclothed figures staring heavenward are a symbol of rising above struggles of the past and looking with hope towards the future in unity. The FloraThe flora is specially selected to add to the charm. These include the national flower – the Lignum Vitae (when in bloom its beautiful light blue flowers are a sight to behold); the national plant – The Blue Mahoe, and an abundance of palms and ferns, complemented by lush, green grass. Holding pride of place among the flora is the aptly named Royal Palm or Cuban Royal Palm. A line of these majestic giants grace the grounds of the park. Plant lovers and anyone who admires the beauty of nature will delight in the Poor Man’s orchids, Lantanas and roses. The scent of the roses can often be picked up in the air as soon as one enters the park. The FenceThe perimeter fence is not just a fence; it too tells the story of a people. An abundance of, Adinkra symbols are used in the making of the fence, such as the Eban that is at the bottom of the fence, and signifies security; and the Wafa Aba (Seed of the Wafa Tree) at the top of the fence. The Wafa Aba is a symbol of perseverance and is symbolic of the strength of the Jamaican people. Adinkra symbols can also be seen on the benches and garbage units found inside the park. The Adrinka are symbols are representative of slaves brought from West Africa. Jogging TrailVisitors and locals alike make use of the 500 meter jogging trail on a daily basis. The popularity of the venue for this purpose lies in the fact that Kingston no longer has a lot of green space, plus Emancipation Park is conveniently located in the island’s business district and in very close proximity to the city’s major hotels, the Hilton Kingston Hotel, The Jamaica Pegasus, The Courtleigh and the Knutsford Court Hotel. ConcertsThe venue is frequently used for free concerts on special occasions. It is also a popular place for newlyweds to take the pictures that will serve as a reminder of their special day. Emancipation Park is centrally located in New Kingston and can be accessed from Oxford Road or Park Place off Knutsford Boulevard. Entrance to Emancipation Park is free.
The copyright of the article Emancipation Park, Jamaica in Jamaica Travel is owned by Jessica McCurdy Crooks. Permission to republish Emancipation Park, Jamaica in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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