NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2023 4 have shaped our collective identity. I pause to honour our pioneers, the visionaries, and all those who have selflessly contributed to the growth and prosperity of our parish over the centuries. We celebrate the legacy of Sir Alexander Bustamante, our national hero from Blenheim, and Hon Percival James Patterson, former prime minister from Dias. They have helped in paving the way for politics and governance in Jamaica. The works of these pioneers have paved a way for us to come together as a parish to embrace diversity, and to uphold the values that define us. Hanover stands tall on the pillars of unity, compassion, and unwavering faith that has been a hallmark for our people throughout the years. Hanoverians here and abroad, let us renew our commitment to preserving the traditions and practices of our parish, while embracing the winds of change. I call on us all to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us. Just as they adapted to the evolving needs of their time, may we endeavour to do so as well, ensuring that our parish remains a sanctuary and a beacon of hope for generations to come. Remember, also, that as we commemorate this 300-year milestone, we will not forget the responsibility we carry to leave a lasting legacy for the future. May we continue to foster a spirit of inclusivity, compassion, and service within our parish. Let us promise to stand up for justice, brotherhood and peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that this our beautiful parish will increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race. Hanoverians join with me as we lift our hands in bonds of harmonious unity, symbolic of our testimonies of resilience and devotion, and declare that we are indeed blessed! May God continue to bless our parish abundantly . SHERIDAN SAMUELS Mayor of Lucea BLESSED CONTINUED FROM 3 HANOVER HOLDS the title of the smallest parish in Jamaica as it only has an area of 1,772 miles or 458.43 sq km. However, the terrain is mainly low lying with some mountainous regions. It also holds the distinction of being the second rainiest parish in the country. The towns include: Green Island, Sandy Bay, Ramble, Dias, Cascade and Lucea. The parish is bordered by St James in the easterly section and by Westmoreland in the south. The exact name was derived from George I, then monarch, who had familial ties with the house of Hanover in Germany. Initially, there was the proposal to name the parish St Sophia to commemorate the memory of King George I mother, but it was overruled by the Assembly. There is evidence that the original inhabitants – the Tainos – once resided in the parish as their remains have been found at Rhodes Hall Estate, Kew Estate, Haughton Hall Estate, Green Island Harbour and New Found River. The Spanish later occupied the island after the voyage of Christopher Columbus who claimed it as a part of Spanish colony. At the introduction of the Spanish, the Tainos were decimated as a result of Spanish brutality and diseases which they contracted from the Spanish. Piracy was also one of the hallmarks of the early history of Hanover. Pirates would operate from the nearby coast, specifically Negril Bay, which was once an embarkation point for pirates. In fact, Henry Morgan who later became Governor of Jamaica was said to be the owner of 4,000 acres of land in Riley, outside of Lucea. After the expulsion of the Spanish in 1655, the English laid claim to the island. Officially, Hanover was established on November 12, 1723 from a section of Westmoreland. The reason given was to facilitate the “ease of the inhabitants”. Prior to that, the residents had signed a petition complaining about the expense and inconvenience that they incurred, for example, having to travel up to 50 miles to pay taxes. Supported by slaves from Africa, Lucea had its fair share of plantations and was a key participant in producing sugar during the 17th and 18th century. In 1776 sugar and rum from the estates were exported from Lucea. By 1768, the parish had 71 sugar plantations, 13,571 slaves, 8,942 heads of cattle and an annual production of 7, 500 barrels of sugar for that year. A census conducted in 1824 revealed that there were: 502 whites, 1,438 free coloureds and 22,945 slaves. During colonial times, Lucea was a vibrant trade port as it was quite common for sales of slaves to take place at the port. RELIGION During the 18th century there were attempts to introduce more The history of Hanover Photograph showing the former home for the Inspector of Police for Hanover at Rusea’s High. OCCASION CONTINUED FROM 2 determination, and resilience have always shone through. It is this spirit that makes Hanover a true symbol of Jamaican strength and character. As a member of parliament, I am immensely proud to represent a place that embodies the very essence of Jamaica. Hanover’s cultural heritage, its traditions, and the warmth of its people are a source of inspiration to us all. Today, we not only celebrate the past, but also look forward to the future. The next 300 years for Hanover hold the promise of growth, development, and prosperity. It is our duty, as representatives and citizens, to ensure that Hanover continues to prosper and maintain its unique character. May its legacy continue to inspire generations for the next 300 years. TAMIKA DAVIS Member of Parliament PLEASE SEE HISTORY, 5 H AHNAONVOEVRE3R0 03T0 H0 TAHNANNI VNEI VRESRASRAYRFYEFAET UATRUER E | S U N DAY, N OV E M B E R 12 , 2 0 2 3
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