From left, strange fruits; a reverse view of the entrance to the gardens, currently being refurbished, and blossoms on an unmarked tree.

In the village of Bath, St. Thomas, there is a garden, which once rivaled Eden. Today, it is only unrivaled in the number of rare plants that occupy this over-200-year-old sanctuary. Most of the trees have died, and the property has been lying in ruins for decades.

Bath Botanical Gardens were established in 1779 on one hectare of land after the original gardens in Gordon Town, St. Andrew were abandoned. Regarded as the second oldest existing botanical garden in the Western Hemisphere, many exotic plants from Asia and other parts of the world were planted in Jamaica, first in this garden. The property was prone to frequent flooding by the Sulphur River, coupled with insufficient nutrients in the soil. In 1862, many of the trees were removed to Castleton, in St. Mary, where a new garden was established.

Grand and elegant

Now, nearly 150 years since, Bath Gardens have survived many more floods and weathered a few storms.The remaining trees, a few of which are found only in these gardens, are still grand and elegant; more so the royal palms, reaching way into the St. Thomas sky, fanning the clouds with their ancient leaves. Over the years, various agencies and organisations had pledged and/or attempted to bring the grounds back to the glory of yesteryear, but like most things in this parish, it is has been a forgotten place, in need in care.

However, things seem to be changing for one of Jamaica's hidden oases. It is the 2007 national Labour Day project, and already, work has started with the construction of a walkway and the erection of a perimeter fence. And, there is more to come. But until then, it is sad commentary on how we treat our national treasures. For those who cannot make the trip to see this idyllic place, The Sunday Gleaner is pleased to transport you there, by way of pictures. Enjoy!

- Text and photos by Paul H. Williams