What fun was had on Friday morning when the Year Three Dolphins made a visit to the Cheshire Hall National Trust historical site. We were greeted by the curator Jonathan, who shared his knowledge and stories with us. Cheshire Hall was set up over 200 years ago by Thomas Stubbs , who had been encouraged by his brother, Wade, to leave his home in England and develop a cotton plantation.
We were shown all the plants and herbs that are still grown there and were told about how these were used to make particular remedies. These traditional island remedies are still used today to help with skin irritations, stomach aches and rheumatism. Even hair conditioners and mosquito repellents can be made using some of the plants and herbs.
We discovered a very deep well that had been used as a water source many years ago when the Hall was in use. Fortunately nobody fell down it by looking too closely over the edge.
We were very excited by the cannon that had been used as a defense against all those naughty pirates – ohh ahhrr! The Dolphins could not believe how heavy it was too! Think they need to work on their muscle building to move it even one little inch! What a a shame we could not fire the cannon ball though!
It was really interesting to see all the real artefacts that have been so carefully looked after. It was also great to meet the ladies who still made hats, baskets, brooms, bowls and now even hair pieces and necklaces, from traditional materials and patterns of the past.
Towards the end of trip Jonathan did offer to keep the children at the Hall in one of the rooms of the ruins. However the children pleaded so much to be able to return to school – as they love the school and their teacher SO much – After much deliberation, we decided to release them and ended up sitting peacefully in the grounds having our snacks.
What a great trip! Well done Year Three Dolphins for being such super students and thank you Jonathan for sharing all your knowledge!
A bit more history…
Cheshire Hall is the best preserved set of authentic ruins on Providenciales. This plantation was the most important site on Providenciales up to the early 1800s, and at its height was comprised of hundreds of acres. Insect attacks, soil degradation and hurricane damage spelled the end of Cheshire Hall in 1810.
Stone-lined trails wind through about fifteen points of interest, including the Great House, a cotton press base, kitchen, cistern, well and a small modern reproduction of a slave cabin. Most of the buildings are in poor condition, although they are identified by signs with explanations as to their use. Many of the local plants around Cheshire Hall are named and described, along with information on commonly encountered wildlife. If you come to visit Providenciales, Year 3 encourage you to go and visit Cheshire Hall to learn more about history and past life here in the Turks and Caicos.