The 1867 Reorganization of Jamaica’s Parishes: A Historical Overview
In 1867, Jamaica underwent a significant administrative transformation that reshaped its parish boundaries, reducing the number from 22 to the present-day 14. This reorganization primarily affected the eastern half of the island, while the western side remained largely unchanged. The changes were part of a broader effort to streamline administrative processes and improve governance across the island.
The Disbanded Parishes
The parishes that were disbanded and merged into others include:
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Vere: This parish was absorbed into Clarendon, a move that consolidated administrative functions and resources.
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St. Dorothy, St. Thomas in the Vale, and St. John: These parishes were merged into St. Catherine, creating a larger and more cohesive administrative region.
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Metcalfe and St. George: Both parishes were incorporated into Portland, enhancing the management of this northeastern area.
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Port Royal: Known for its historical significance as a bustling port city, Port Royal was merged into St. Andrew, aligning it with the growing urban area of Kingston.
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St. David: This parish was merged into St. Thomas, which was formerly known as St. Thomas in the East. The reorganization retained the latter name, simplifying the parish’s identity.
The Unique Case of St. Thomas
Interestingly, there were originally two parishes named St. Thomas: “St. Thomas in the Vale” and “St. Thomas in the East.” The 1867 reorganization retained “St. Thomas in the East,” which is now simply known as St. Thomas. This decision helped clarify the administrative boundaries and reduced confusion between the two regions.
Kingston: A Parish of Its Own
The City of Kingston has always been a parish in its own right. Over time, it has expanded to include parts of lower St. Andrew in its postal codes, reflecting its growth as Jamaica’s capital and largest city. Kingston’s status as a separate parish underscores its importance as the island’s political, cultural, and economic hub.
Parish Capitals and Churches
Each of the original parishes had a capital town, which typically featured a parish church. These churches not only served as places of worship but also as community centers and landmarks, highlighting the historical and cultural significance of each parish.
The 1867 reorganization of Jamaica’s parishes was a pivotal moment in the island’s history, marking a shift towards more efficient governance. By consolidating smaller parishes and redefining boundaries, the changes laid the groundwork for modern administrative practices. Today, the 14 parishes of Jamaica continue to reflect the island’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
