| |
Dramatic Sky, Calm Harbor Offer Two Views of Barbados
By Tom Adkinson
BARBADOS, West Indies – This dramatic tropical sunset over Charles Fort led to a postcard-pretty morning in Carlisle Bay, the part of Barbados the fort once protected. Barbados was one of the most heavily fortified Caribbean islands Great Britain ruled in colonial times. Charles Fort, built in 1650, actually predates the creation of Kingdom of Great Britain (1707) and is one of 20 forts and 26 artillery batteries strategically placed around this island tourist destination.
Charles Fort; image by Tom Adkinson. |
With its military importance eclipsed by modern times, Charles Fort now is on the grounds of the Hilton Barbados Resort and often is incorporated into hotel special events. The fort is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 151-acre Garrison Historic District, which includes the George Washington House, the place Washington stayed during his only time outside North America. That was in 1751, well before anyone knew he would become America’s first president. The parade grounds of the Garrison Historic District are where the Great Britain’s Union Jack was lowered for the last time and the flag of Barbados first flew. That day of independence was Nov. 30, 1966.
Carlisle Bay; image by Tom Adkinson. |
(Travel writer Tom Adkinson’s new book, 100 Things To Do in Nashville Before You Die, is available at CornersOfTheCountry.com.)
Published February 21, 2019 |
