Importance of Preserving St. James’ History Underscored

Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, has underscored the importance of preserving the rich heritage and historical legacy of St. James.

He emphasised this while speaking during a Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) heritage lecture on the parish, held at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre on October 19.

Councillor Vernon noted that the importance of understanding one’s history in building resilience, especially in challenging times, cannot be overstated as it creates a strong cultural identity among the people.

“So, I commend the JCDC for putting on the event [because] these are the things that we want to hear these days, the rich history we have. It is about protecting our heritage,” he outlined.

“Heritage is our land, our identity. This is who we are, this is what has been passed on to us. We must protect it, not only for ourselves, but for the generations to come,” the Deputy Mayor added.

Meanwhile, Councillor Vernon lauded students from the various primary and secondary schools who attended the event and displayed a keen interest in uncovering the past of St. James and, by extension, Jamaica

He urged them to use the information to enrich themselves and pass it on to future generations.

In doing so, the Deputy Mayor said the citizens of St. James can foster a deeper connection to their heritage to build a greater future.

The lecture was delivered by historical researcher and former Mayor of Montego Bay, Shalmon Scott, who shared his profound insights into the history of the city and St. James.

Grade 11 student at Herbert Morrison Technical High School, Chrisana Stone, said it was crucial for her to be at the lecture because she takes history seriously.

She indicated that such information should be accessible to every Jamaican for them to understand their past and the invaluable lessons they can learn.

“So, I am glad I [was] here listening to this,” Ms. Stone pointed out.

Teacher of Vaughansfield Primary and Infant School, Abigail Chambers, said she saw it necessary to take students to the lecture because “I think history of any place or where you reside is important; and so having them [there gave] them exposure.”

Additionally, Ms. Chambers said she garnered new information, such as how the parish’s streets and landmarks were named.