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The first mango plants introduced into Jamaica were ‘captured’ on the high seas on their way from the East Indians to the West Indies by Lord Rodney’s ship H.M.S Flora in 1782. They were first planted at the private garden at Gordon Town, St. Andrew, belonging to Hinton East. The seedlings were numbered on arrival, eg. the number eleven. The Bombay mango was introduced later in 1868 at Castleton Gardens.
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Discover the inherent charm of villages with names like Standfast, Wait-A-Bit, Me-nuh-sen-yu-nuh-come, or Nonsuch |
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Resort Areas
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| | Montego Bay |
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| | Negril |
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| | Ocho Rios |
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| | Port Antonio |
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| | South Coast |
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Watt Town |
| Watt Town, a small village deep in the bauxite-rich Dry Harbour Mountains of St Ann is the mecca of Revivalists islandwide, since Revivalism in Jamaica began here in the late 1800s. Located at the top of a steep hill in the village, is the Watt Town Zion Revival Church, a small, humble building set amidst meticulously maintained gardens called "the vineyards" by the congregation. The gardens are constantly expanding, as visitors to the church who have received inspiration are encouraged to sow a seedling before they leave. The result is a charming and peaceful area, ideal for meditation and bible study.
In its history, the church has had only four leaders, including the legendary Father Donor, who started the church, choosing the location after a vision directed him to the village. Just before his death, he bequeathed leadership to his daughter Emily, who led the congregation for many years, building a congregation and initiating traditions still followed today. After her, a young and dynamic preacher took over, and for many years the name of Leader Linton was constantly associated with the Revival church. Today the church is in the care of the descendants of Mother Donor and Leader Linton; Brother Elgar Linton, the son of Leader Linton, capably assists the welcoming and affable “Leadress” Inez York, who also happens to be the great-great-granddaughter of Mother Emily.
Each year, on the first Thursday in March, the town plays host to the largest revivalist meeting on the island, at which whole church congregations gather around the church for a day and night of constant singing, praying and spiritual healing. The church is equipped to provide accommodation for pilgrims in search of inspiration and healing year-round. Adjoining the "schoolroom" is a building with a series of rustic rooms and dormitories open to believers, who sometimes stay for weeks at a time.
Generally, visitors are welcome, but all guests are asked to be respectful of the church and of the beliefs of the members. Meetings are held several times each day, however, usually there is someone around who will, on request, gladly pray with or for anyone, at any time. The church is maintained by the contributions of pilgrims and congregants, yet, like the community within which it operates, it is constantly strapped for cash. Donations are neither compulsory nor expected; they are, however, highly appreciated, both by the regular congregants and the pilgrims who use the facilities there. |
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