Speightstown Alive!

Speightstown played a vital role in trade between Barbados, the Cape Coast, the Americas, and England up to the early years of Barbados’ independence and Barbadians of all ages need to be aware of its significance.

Cape Coast

Cuffee, the enslaved African who was to be enstooled as King of Barbados on June 12, 1675 was from what is now known as Cape Coast. He is described in the records as an “ancient Gold Coast negro.”

Bristol

This coastal town was the main trading port in a vibrant trading relationship between Barbados and England. At this time Speightstown was the main trading port in Barbados for sugar being sent to England.

Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina was colonised for Britain in 1670 by British/Barbadian planters who sailed out of Speightstown. Two St. Peter planters were among the first Governors – Sir John Colleton and Sir John Yeamans.

Reading

This UK town is twinned with Speightstown because many of the Barbadians who immigrated to the UK settled in Reading.

Learn more about the Speightstown connection to the cities of Cape Coast Bristol, Charleston and Reading below.