Historic Black River, Jamaica

de bene esse: literally, of well-being, morally acceptable but subject to future validation or exception 

The architecture of Black River in St Elizabeth has not changed much. It was established around 1671 and was designated the capital of the parish in 1773, when it replaced Lacovia.

 

High Street, the main thoroughfare of the parish capital's pastoral slumber was invaded by motor cars and commercial signs. The electric wires which criss-cross the skies have special significance - Black River has the distinction of being the first town in Jamaica to be lit by electricity in 1839.