Grenade Hall Forest and Signal Station – Time and Nature in Harmony
By Rekke Editorial
Photos from Barbados.org
One of three of the original signal stations still open to visitors in Barbados today. History and nature lovers will both appreciate a visit to Grenade Hall. Once part of a crucial network of the security measures taken by Lord Combermere, Governor of Barbados (1817 - 1820), to protect the island from invasion by sea and slave rebellions following the rebellion in 1816. Grenade Hall station, constructed in 1819 is located in the parish of St. Andrew, looking out over the east coast. A simple construction,
How did they tell the time? – A large, highly visible metal or wooden ball was dropped at a pre-specified time of day. These balls would have been raised half-way up the mast about 5 minutes before, then with 2-3 minutes to go, hoisted to the top. This was the signal to mainly navigators on board ships that needed accurate time to calibrate their instruments as they relied on precise time to determine their location. But they also allowed workers and school children to coordinate their activities across the island.
Although sound (cannon fire) could have been used, the speed of sound varies with atmospheric conditions and receiving the signal depends on the distance to the observer. In comparison, a visual cue has much greater accuracy. However, with the advent of reliable radio time signals in the 20th century, the time balls became obsolete.
At Grenade Hall, an audio tour plays as you explore the signal station; with artefacts uncovered during the restoration of the station, you can have a glimpse of life at one of these signal stations in the 1800’s. The windows in the signal stations now give you magnificent views.
Step into the forest, experience the healing powers of walking along the coral edged pathway, through the serene tranquillity, with birds and monkeys moving around above you. There is plenty of signage to answer the questions posed. What plants were used as cures by the enslaved labour and how are they still used in modern medicine?
Don’t miss the caves, a crucial shelter for the early Amerindian inhabitants during hurricanes.
Next door to the signal station is Barbados Wildlife Reserve – your entry fee gains you admission to that too!
You might also like
Gun Hill Signal Station
Barbados’ Military History, From Its Most Commanding Hill