The Barbados National Heroes Gallery provides an opportunity to learn more about the lives and circumstances which elevated to national honor individuals who exemplify all that is best in Barbadian life and history: 

» Faith and Courage, 
» The struggle for Freedom and Independence, 
» Social Justice and Democracy and
» The pursuit of Excellence.

The Barbados Museum of Parliament takes visitors through the history of the institution and highlights the events and personalities that have played a major role in its development. 

Exhibits examine the involvement of these key figures and the wider population in the country's social and political reconfiguration.

Look out for changing exhibitions on a variety of topics in the exhibition gallery upstairs. Treasure the memories of your visit. 

Unique mementoes reflecting the themes of the gallery and museum are available in the Gift Shop. Discover the history that forms the foundation of the proud nation of Barbados that you see today.

Barbados Museum of Parliament

The Parliament of Barbados is the third oldest in the Commonwealth, after those of the United Kingdom and Bermuda.

A parliament was established in Barbados in 1639, made up of representatives of the dominant English planters. Since then "the strength and durability of our institutions are best demonstrated by the fact the representative governments and the rule of law are now administered by people who are different in racial origins from those who established them.

The Museum of Parliament showcases the history of the institution not in the traditional museum of artifacts, but in an innovative and interactive display showcasing Barbados' critical history of democracy. 

Inside one can find sections highlighting Parliament's role in the social and economic development of Barbados. Also, the struggle and sacrifices made by simple Barbadians and the varied personalities who provided leadership at various stages of the country's development.

The distinct features of this museum should give all visitors an insight into the history of the development of political institutions in Barbados.

National Heroes of Barbados

In 1639 the English inhabitants of Barbados settled a Parliament for themselves and thereby created the Legislative institutions which we have since, without any disturbance enjoyed.

The strength and durability of our institutions are best demonstrated by the fact that representative government and the rule of law are now administered by people who are different in racial origins from those that established them.

Errol Barrow, 'No Loitering on Colonial Office premises', Address to the Barbados Constitutional Conference, London, July 1966.

How does a community develop its values about its heritage? 

How does it decide what to value from its past? 

How does one decide what quantum of these values to pass on to our future generations? 

In order to identify the qualities that express the finest elements in the national character of its people, and to provide role models for future generations, a nation needs heroes. 

In 1998, Barbados chose 10 National Heroes.

These are people whose lives have demonstrated a commitment to democracy, faith and freedom, social justice and excellence.

The 10 National Heroes of Barbados, entitled "Right
Excellent" are:

» Bussa (?-1816); 
» Sarah Ann Gill (1779-1866); 
» Samuel Jackman Prescod (1806-1871); 
» Dr. Charles Duncan O'Neal (1879-1936); 
» Clement Osbourne Payne (1904-1941);
» Sir Grantley Herbert Adams (1898-1971); 
» Rt. Hon. Errol Walton Barrow (1920-1987); 
» Sir Hugh Worrell Springer (1913-1994); 
» Sir Frank Leslie Walcott (1916-1999); and
» Sir Garfield St Auburn Sobers (1936-).

The interactive screens strategically positioned give clear explanations to the dramatic evocative sculptures, created by Barbadian and Caribbean artists. 

These icons no doubt give imaginative expression to the qualities, contribution and circumstances of the life of each National hero.

National Heroes Gallery and Museum of Parliament
Parliament Buildings
Bridgetown, St. Michael,
Barbados

http://www.barbadosparliament.com


Call (246) 310-5400

Visitor Comments:

There are currently no comments available.