Garfield Williams, Potter from Cockpit Country region

Ceramic potter Garfield Williams studied at West Humber Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Canada, before returning to Jamaica in early 2000. Originally from Balaclava, St. Elizabeth, Williams began making drawings and sketches as early as he learned how to write.  His creative influences include his mother, who studied art at Edna Manley College of the Visual & Performing Arts in Kingston, and the acclaimed Jamaican potter Phillip Supersad.  According to Williams, art should have more prominence at early levels in schools, especially considering that it serves as a universal language for commenting on and commemorating national heritage and culture.  His goal, moving forward, is to incorporate more Jamaican materials — for example clay and the calabash — into artistic mediums.  Williams also plans to mentor youths and raise awareness of the possibilities that exist in the arts.

The town of Flagstaff, formerly known as Trelawny Town

The town of Flagstaff is located on the northwestern boundary of the Cockpit Country, approximately a one-hour drive from Montego Bay, and is the original site of one of the earliest Maroon settlements. With a population of only 1100, Flagstaff’s namesake was derived from the British military units, who positioned their flags on high points that could be seen by garrisons in the neighbouring Falmouth. The community is celebrated for its unparalleled history, culture and biodiversity. It is also home to The Flagstaff Heritage Tour & Trails.

The Flagstaff Heritage Tour & Trails involves a series of three trails commencing from the town center. Guided tours provide an insider view into the historical and cultural heritage of Flagstaff as well as an understanding of the abundant bounty of natural resources available in present-day Cockpit Country.

In addition to the experience of walking the trails and learning about the history of Flagstaff, visitors will enjoy cultural presentations from the community – such as singing, drumming and dramatic historical re-enactment performances – and have the opportunity to purchase local products and crafts produced in Flagstaff and neighbouring communities. The history of Flagstaff is brought to life through viewings of Maroon and British burial sites; the place where the Peace Treaty between the Maroons and the British was originally signed; the former British parade and training grounds and barracks; the site of the old Hospital; and Petty River Bottom, where the Maroon’s campaign for freedom was memorialized.

Among the tours offered are the Dragoon Hole Trail, the Maroon Trail and the Cemetery Trail. Herbal gardens, healing mineral springs, exquisite flora and fauna, and historic landmarks are among the habitats visitors will experience, all of which are enhanced by the defining character of the area, its people. More than a museum in the rainforest, Flagstaff is an active community whose survival and well-being is directly interconnected with its environmental resources. A privileged insight into this time-honoured life cycle is just one of the many highlights of an enchanted journey to Flagstaff.