Sam Sharpe Square

This cobblestoned square in downtown Montego Bay is named for Samuel Sharpe, the Baptist deacon who led the 1831 Christmas Rebellion - the largest slave uprising in Jamaican history, involving over 60,000 enslaved people. Sharpe was hanged in this very square on May 23, 1832, and declared a National Hero in 1975. His image appears on Jamaica's $50 note. The bronze monument by sculptor Kay Sullivan depicts Sharpe addressing his people, Bible in hand. Surrounding the square are several heritage structures: the Cage, an 1806 lockup for runaway slaves and drunken sailors; the copper-domed Civic Centre, rebuilt from the 1803 courthouse where Sharpe was tried; and the Freedom Monument erected in 2007. The Civic Centre now houses the Museum of St. James, which traces western Jamaica's history from Taino culture through colonialism and emancipation - admission is about J$500. The square is free, open 24/7, and about a 15-minute walk from the Hip Strip. Aurum Transfers delivers you from MBJ to downtown Montego Bay in 15 minutes for $75 for up to four guests with complimentary Starlink WiFi.