Barbados Sunbury Plantation
Barbados Sunbury Plantation
Sunbury Plantation has a long history dating back over 300 years. Matthew Chapman, an Irish immigrant settled here after leaving Ireland. The plantation was originally named Chapman's Plantation, however following Matthew's death it was purchased by Nathanial Branker. Nathanial renamed it Branker's Plantation, which it remained so named until James Butler Harris purchased it some 60 years later.
It was thus purchased by two brothers, John Henry Barrow and George Barrow. They greatly enlarged the plantation and renamed it Sunbury, the name of their home in England. Just as the plantation has survived several hurricanes and a slave rebellion in 1816 which resulted in $4000.00 damage to the plantation, the name lives on today.After subsequent owners, the house was bought by Mr. and Mrs. Keith Melville in 1981. Being horse lovers, they immediately started a horse drawn collection years ago, this hobby has since turned into a rather extensive collection of antiques and artifacts for years gone by. The Melville's resided at Sunbury until 1985, turning the house into a museum and opening it to the public in 1984.
Visiting the plantation late last year turned into a memorable experience, an exquisite job has been done maintaining the grounds and the house is in immaculate condition. On display on the ground and upper floors, much furniture and art work exemplify what life would have been like in that bygone era..
Working our way to the basement, where much of the food supply was stored before refrigeration was available, many household appliances are to be found and enjoyed. It is quite entertaining to view and try to figure out what some of them were used for.It can make one feel quite old, as I remember my parents had some of the same appliances in my childhood home.
As we were enjoying a shore excursion , we had been promised lunch and boy, we weren't disappointed. After being given a glass of rum laced punch, everyone sat down to a late afternoon meal.
Starting with a Flying Fish appetizer, the main course, Dorado Fish complete with sweet potato and salad was served. Never having had Dorado Fish , It was quite a treat, it has a taste I had never experienced any where.
Just had to have another glass of punch to top off the fine food!
Sunbury Plantation is just another fine example of this islands early achievements which greatly contributed to the early struggle for independence of the United States. Barbados has one of the finest educational systems in the western hemisphere, may it continue to contribute as we enter a new time and era in civilization.
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