Marlene McPherson, Outlook Writer

As you leave the house, follow the steps into the cool Manava River seen here. - Photos by Marlene McPherson

My journey to the home of the Thorburn family in St. Thomas is unforgettable. This seventeen-mile drive from the capital Morant Bay took me through the six districts, all with their own peculiarities; showcasing the Blue Mountains as the backdrop, lush vegetation, large acreage of coffee plantation, ridges and valleys.

The roadways were either bumpy and rough, or smooth and unasphalted.

On arrival I was compensated by the sight - nature at peace with man's intervention - a home that seemed just to stand nearby without disturbing the natural setting. This 33-year-old home, nestled between tall pine trees and lush palms, in a district known as Monkland, carries a most interesting name. It is called 'Cho Man'.

At a glance the pale white-painted house with its black thatched roof was not dramatic but it gave a feeling of serenity. As you enter its glass door you are in for a treat, most of the flooring is made of bricks except that of the bedrooms which are tiled.

Eners Thorburn disclosed he bought the land in 1967 and constructed the home within six months in 1973.

It has three bedrooms with built- in wardrobe and a storage area. The living room, dinning room and kitchen occupy the same spacious area yet remain very airy. To the rear is a veranda that has three sets of steps leading towards the yard and eventually to the cool Manava River. The area is very fruitful with mangoes, apples, pear, breadfruit, plantain, tangerine. There are mass wood, pine, and cedar trees.

On to the lawn. This is perfectly manicured thanks to Bradley Carr, caretaker for 25 years. He told Outlook that he area was a cow's pasture for a long time before the house was constructed.

This home was used as a family resort on weekends for relaxation and a getaway. It was also used for private parties for friends and family members.

Eners Thorburn disclosed he bought the land in 1967 and constructed the home within six months, in 1973.

It has three bedrooms with built- in wardrobe and a storage area. The living room, dining room and kitchen occupy the same spacious area, yet remain very airy. To the rear is a veranda that has three sets of steps leading towards the yard and eventually to the cool Manava River. The area is very fruitful with mangoes, apples, pear, breadfruit, plantain, tangerine. There are mass wood, pine, and cedar trees.

On to the lawn. This is perfectly manicured, thanks to Bradley Carr, caretaker for 25 years. He told Outlook that the area was a cow pasture for a long time before the house was constructed.

This home was used as a family resort on weekends for relaxation and a getaway. It was also used for private parties for friends and family members.