An exploration of the galleries within the museum’s nineteenth century walls reveals a fascinating story of the history and culture of this country and its people through the ages.

Artefacts acquired by the museum showcase both the island’s natural and social history. Dive into fun facts about our underwater world and land-based creatures in the Harewood Gallery. Then step into a Barbados that existed before Independence and see why Barbados was known as “Little England”. Exhibits in the Jubilee Gallery paint a picture of the early days of European settlement, the establishment of the third-oldest Parliament in the Western Hemisphere and the emergence of the plantation system. British-influenced religion, place names and customs are evident in the displays, but so are the uniquely Barbadian architecture, traditions, skills and industries that appeared as Barbados came into its own. 

The story continues in the Children’s Gallery - a favourite place for the young and old alike. Get up close with memorabilia of yesteryear such as the standpipe, mortar and pestle, guttaperk, handmade scooter, and models of a sugar factory and of the old-time Roclyn bus, trucks and schooners. Recreations of an early working class dwelling and an old-fashioned kitchen, complete with a larder and other traditional utensils, depict aspects of early to mid-twentieth century daily life in Barbados. Children can enjoy the doll collection and pull out drawers to view toys and fancy ladies’ accessories. A mirrored area is also provided for them to play dress up by donning a Zouave uniform, mulatto girl dress and other historical costumes.

The lavish lifestyle of the planter is highlighted through the Warmington Gallery’s four period rooms. The master bedroom, nursery, dining room and living room installations bear testimony to the wealth acquired from the sugar industry. Mid-eighteenth century to late 19^th century furniture, silverware, ceramic ware from the Farley Hill collection, a Chippendale pie crust table and a locally made 1830s mahogany four-poster bed all reflect the finery that was found in the planter’s home. 

That’s not all. Galleries focusing on fine art, African history and its legacy for the Caribbean, and the military history of the island and the Garrison Historic Area also await visitors to the Museum.

 Did you know that the Museum’s romantic courtyards offer the perfect setting for your wedding or special event? And check out Museum Gift Shop for keepsakes such as a warri game, postcards, dolls, books on Barbadian history and much more. Tracing your family history or want to research a historical topic? Then the Museum’s Shilstone Memorial Library is the place for you.

Stay up to date on upcoming activities by checking the website www.barbmuse.org.bb and please feel free to contact the Museum at Tel: 427-0201 or Email: musepr@barbmuse.org.bb.