Things Bajan: Tyrol Cot

Wed, November 21, 2012 - 9:14 AM

For the month of November, we will focus on things Barbados as this country celebrates its independence. Every day we will be highlighting Barbadian sayings, artefacts unique to the country, as well as personalities, icons, some places and things that reflect Barbados.

The focus today is on Tyrol Cot which is located in St Michael.

Tyrol Cot was the home of Sir Grantley Adams, the first premier of Barbados and the only Prime Minister of the Federation of the West Indies (1958 to 1962). It is also the birthplace of his son, the late Tom Adams, who was also served as Prime Minister of Barbados.

Tyrol Cot is an architectural gem. It was built in 1854 by William Farnum, a prominent builder who also built part of Glendairy prison and the porch of the east wing of the Public Buildings. It is built of coral stone on two levels, with a deep basement. It echoes the ‘harmonic proportions of Palladio, but with restrained decoration. The double Demerara jalousied windows set in Roman arches, is a brilliant combination of the classical with the tropical vernacular.

Tyrol Cot was the centre stage for many of the significant political events of both Barbados and the Caribbean, from before the events of 1937 until the birth of the Federation.

• Source: A-Z Of Barbadian Heritage