The Irish Settlement in Jamaica Project was started in June 2007 by Anthony & Kate Butler. Its goal is to identify the Irish slaves and servants who were sent to Jamaica between 1655 and circa 1850. We have completed preliminary fieldwork in August 2008 during Tropical Storm Gustav.

Research was carried out in Kingston and Spanish Town, Jamaica in August 2009. Our time was first spent in the National Library and the University of the West Indies in Kingston, along with visits to the National Archives in Spanish Town. We found a staggering amount of raw data, some of which was gathered, but much remains to be investigated.      

Central Square in Spanish Town.

Field work was carried out in Irish Town the last two weeks of August 2009 with survey of numerous tracks and trails in and around Irish Town in the Blue Mountains north of Kingston. A number of residential properties were surveyed, and it is anticipated that our work will continue in the future.

View of the Blue Mountains around Irish Town

View of Newcastle Military Cemetery in the Blue Mountains.

Our work focused on three key areas: history, archaeology and folklore. In this we were successful, and a large amount of relevant information has come to light.  Copies of our reports are available for purchase. Send me an email at info@earthworksarchaeology.com for further details.