Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew is an iconic landmark of the picturesque island paradise of Barbados. Standing tall at the highest point of this historic district, the ruins of the former sugar cane milling powerhouse offer a fascinating insight into the deep history of the island. Dating back to the 1740s, this was one of the largest sugar producing facilities in the region. Despite its age, it remains a staple for all travelers and locals alike, offering a stunning backdrop to enjoy the sweeping panoramic views across the entire parish of St. Andrew. In this blog post, we’ll explore all the interesting facts and information surrounding Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew, as well as offer some handy travel advice for anyone wishing to explore this remarkable attraction.

Interesting Facts About Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew

1. The chimneys of Morgan Lewis Mill are the oldest surviving industrial structures in Barbados. They were constructed by Henry and William Fanning, two brothers, between 1760 and 1762.

2. The tallest of the two remaining chimneys is 150 feet high.

3. The two chimneys were originally used to provide air to the boilers, furnaces, and wind-driven machinery used in the production of sugar.

4. The chimneys were constructed using bricks, stone and mortar.

5. The Morgan Lewis Mill worked until 1949, when it was shut down due to the declining sugar industry.

6. After the mill was shut down, the chimneys were used for a variety of purposes, such as a communication tower and even a hotel.

7. In 1995, the chimneys were designated a National Historic Site and are now maintained by the Barbados National Trust.

8. In 2015, a fire broke out at the site, damaging one of the chimneys. The other was able to withstand the blaze.

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History & Information About Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew

Morgan Lewis Mill was built in the early 18th century and was used by slaves to process sugarcane. The site is located in St. Andrew, Barbados, and is now a historic landmark and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison.

The chimneys associated with the mill were built between 1873 and 1874 and are constructed of coral and mortar. The chimneys stand together in a triangular formation and measure 40 and 50 feet in height. They are an early example of Caribbean-style industrial architecture, featuring corbelled brickwork and plentiful arches.

The Morgan Lewis Mill is the only remaining intact windmill and chimney complex in the Caribbean. The chimneys are the most visible parts of the complex and are a reminder of the industrial and technological advances brought to Barbados by slavery. The chimneys also stand as a symbol for the hard work and dedication of the slaves in producing sugarcane on the island.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew

Jamaica

Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew Jamaica is an important part of Jamaican history. The 19th century windmill is one of the few remaining reminders of the country’s slave-based sugar-cane production which was the backbone of the local economy. It’s a popular spot for tourists looking to explore the ruins, take pictures, and learn about the island’s rich past.

Getting There

Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys can be found in the parish of St. Andrew, Jamaica. The closest airport is Sangster International Airport located in Montego Bay, a 45-minute drive away. You can also fly into Tinson Pen Airport in Kingston, then take a bus or taxi to the mill chimneys.

Another option is to take the Jamaica Tour Traxx from Kingston to St. Andrew, which takes about 1.5-2 hours. The bus will stop at the entrance to the Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys.

Things to Do

When visiting the Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, you can take a walk around and explore the ruins. The ruins consist of 30-foot stone chimneys and an old millstone, and they provide a beautiful backdrop to take pictures. To get a better view from the top, you can climb to the top of the chimneys.

You can also take a tour of the grounds where you can learn about the history of the mill and the island. There are also boats available for rent so you can explore the area by water.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting the Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, there are plenty of other attractions nearby that you can explore.

Within a 30-minute drive, you can visit the old capital of Spanish Town, with its cobblestoned streets and colonial buildings. You can also take a trip to Dunn’s River Falls, a terraced waterfall that cascades down nearly 600 feet. A must-see is the Bob Marley Museum, dedicated to the reggae legend, with exhibits showcasing his career and personal artifacts. Lastly, you can make a stop to cool off at Frenchman’s Cove, one of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys, St. Andrew

1. What is the history of Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys?

Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys is a historic windmill complex located in St. Andrew, Barbados. Built in the 1720s, the mill and chimneys have been used as a working mill for the production of sugar for centuries. The site has been in continuous use as a mill until the early 20th century.

2. Is it open to the public?

Yes, the Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys is open to the public and can be visited year-round. Guided tours are available from the Barbados National Trust and pre-booked visits can be arranged by calling the Barbados National Trust office.

3. What is the significance of the site?

The Morgan Lewis Mill Chimneys is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Barbadian Mill architecture. It is also seen as a symbol of the thriving sugar industry which made up the majority of Barbados’s economy in the 18th and 19th centuries. The chimneys represent over 200 years of Barbados’s history and its reliance on sugar production.

4. Are there any other attractions near the mill?

The Morgan Lewis Mill is located in the historic parish of St. Andrew. Other nearby attractions include Cherry Tree Hill, Mount Hillaby, Codrington College, Morgan Lewis Cave, and many more historical and cultural sights.

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