Portvale Sugar Factory, St. James : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the heart of downtown St. James, where one of the most famous sugar factories in the Caribbean is located – the Portvale Sugar Factory. Located in the middle of St. James parish, this longstanding plantation has been the source of sweet memories and economic stability for residents and visitors alike for centuries. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating history and background behind this venerable establishment, as well as provide an informative travel guide on the best sights to see near the factory. So, join us on a journey to the magical Portvale Sugar Factory, and discover some interesting facts and information along the way.

Interesting Facts About Portvale Sugar Factory, St. James

County

1. The Portvale Sugar Factory was originally built in 1856 by William Seymour, making it the oldest sugar factory in all of St. James County.

2. During the American Civil War, Portvale Sugar Factory was rented and used as a prison and execution site for prisoners of war.

3. During World War II, the sugar factory was seized by the government and used as a plant to manufacture explosives.

4. The Portvale Sugar Factory has been in continuous operation since 1856, making it one of the oldest and longest-operating sugar factories in the world.

5. Many of the workers at the Portvale Sugar Factory are direct descendants of the original workers hired by William Seymour in 1856.

6. In 2016, the Portvale Sugar Factory was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

7. In 2017, the Portvale Sugar Factory was recognized as an International Biodiversity Conservation site due to its unique and diverse flora and fauna.

8. The Portvale Sugar Factory is home to several species of rare and endangered birds, frogs, and furry mammals, making it a valuable ecological asset in St. James County.

9. Portvale Sugar Factory produces over 500,000 pounds of sugar annually, making it the largest producer of sugar in the county.

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History & Information About Portvale Sugar Factory, St. James

The Portvale Sugar Factory, located in St. James, Jamaica, is a sugar mill and rum distillery that operated from 1747 to 1960. The factory employed generations of workers within its grounds and is now maintained as a historical site and national landmark.

In 1747, the Dutch built the sugar factory and a plantation for this purpose in the parish of St. James. By 1750, the original sugar mill powered by mules had been replaced by a steam-operated mill. During the production process, Portvale also produced rum, a popular by-product of the milling process.

During the 19th century, the factory operated as one of the leading sugar plantations in Jamaica, exporting large quantities of sugar and rum. Slaves were brought from Africa to work in the fields, and eventually, the area of Portvale would become home to a diverse population of workers from across the Caribbean. The factory and plantation were considered some of the most modern in the Caribbean, and tourists from around the world would flock to visit its facilities and observe the milling process.

In 1893, the factory fell into financial difficulty and closed. Its last sugar was milled in 1960 and then the factory was sold to a private company who then leased it to a sugar cane producer. Some of the old buildings still stand today, however the distillery component of the site has since been removed. The Jamaican National Heritage Trust has recognized the site as a national monument and heritage site since 1976, and it currently serves as an educational center, with tours and educational resources related to the history of sugar and rum production on the site. As well as this, the factory is home to the National History Museum of Jamaica, featuring displays of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the island’s history of sugar production.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Portvale Sugar Factory, St. James

Surrounded by lush green foliage, winding rivers, and sprawling mountain ranges, the portvale sugar factory of St. James is a hidden gem in the Caribbean. With its rich history, unique architecture and delicious treats, it’s no wonder why travelers have come to love the factory. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the factory:

Getting There: The closest airports to the factory are the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay (approximately 55 miles away) and the Tinson Pen Airport (approximately 17 miles away). From either of these airports, you can take a taxi, minivan, or tour bus to the factory.

Hours of Operation: The Portvale Sugar Factory is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am-4pm.

What to Do: There are plenty of activities to enjoy at the factory. You can take a tour of the facility and learn all about the process of sugar production. You can also watch as the sugar is packaged and prepped for sale. Additionally, you can try the many delicious treats such as cocoa tea, cocoa fudge, and plantain chips. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase local items and souvenirs.

Tips for Visiting:
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking between the factory’s attractions.
• Bring sunscreen as there is limited shade in the area.
• Be prepared for the heat, as temperatures can reach high levels during the hot season.
• Be sure to take advantage of the free samples, as they are delicious.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Portvale Sugar Factory, St. James

Q: Where is the Portvale Sugar Factory located?
A: The Portvale Sugar Factory is located in St. James, Jamaica.

Q: How long has the Portvale Sugar Factory been in operation?
A: The Portvale Sugar Factory has been in operation since 1890.

Q: What types of sugar products does the Portvale Sugar Factory produce?
A: The Portvale Sugar Factory produces a variety of sugar products, including granulated sugar, icing sugar, dark brown sugar, and muscovado sugar.

Q: Does the Portvale Sugar Factory offer tours of the facility?
A: Yes, the Portvale Sugar Factory offers guided tours of the facility. Tour reservations must be made in advance.

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