Abingdon Estate Great House: A historical abode

As responsible protectors and custodians of our distant past, we must continue to stimulate and promote interest and appreciation of the island’s national heritage.

Our amazing journey today opens a doorway to a bygone era as we curiously uncover an architectural treasure that many of us simply did not know existed! This is the Abingdon Estate Great House, high up on a hill, seated squarely facing the sea. Construction of the historical building commenced in 1674. That was a long time ago, making it one of Jamaica’s oldest, continually inhabited houses.

It was originally fully secured with defensive, mounted artillery, with the use of cannons for protection against possible Spanish and pirate invasion from the nearby coast. The cannons can still be seen on the property. Still standing is the 350-year-old, 50-foot tall, cut-stone sugar mill from when the estate planted sugar cane.

The 17th-century house, with its friendly spirits of the past, has withstood the test of time and is still standing strong with six-foot thick original walls of cut stone (some now disguised with cement finish) and others in wood. The upper floors are in solid mahogany planks while the downstairs reveals vintage tile work. The great house encompasses ten bedrooms and five bathrooms, a kitchen, drawing and sitting rooms, and an outdoor terrace.

Ruth Ivy Lucille Heath, a caring, soft-spoken lady, became the new owner of the estate in the 1930s and undertook extensions and modifications, including bringing plumbing inside. Heath also welcomed and catered with open arms to many visitors who came calling, including Prime Ministers Alexander Bustamante, Norman Manley, and Michael Manley.

Sadly, Heath passed away in 1997 at 97 years old. The present owner, Heath’s grandson, Andrew Marr, has a degree in hotel and restaurant management and has carried on the legacy bequeathed to him and continues to carefully preserve, restore, and maintain the place to the state it has long been accustomed to.

Not to be forgotten is the vast fruited acreage of 492 acres, with forested, scrub, and pastureland, including the private, white sand, Half Moon Beach, complete with outdoor showers, pavilion, and gazebos. However, the most compelling feature, some say, are the three private off-shore islands belonging to the property, the main one called Calico Jack (named after the notorious pirate), featuring a shack with a rustic bar on it. The best place to hang out!

Address: Green Island, Hanover, Westmoreland.

- Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barry-rattray@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com