Nestled along the bustling Old Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica College stands as a beacon of the island’s rich educational heritage. Its storied buildings—Simms Hall, the Scotland Building, the Assembly Hall, and the Chapel—are not mere structures of brick and mortar but are repositories of memories, echoing the footsteps of students and educators who have walked these halls.

Jamaica College (JC) traces its origins back to the early 18th century when Charles Drax, a wealthy sugar planter from St. Ann, left a bequest in his 1721 will, to establish a charity school for the poor children of his parish. His vision was rooted in the belief that education could uplift those who were less fortunate, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve their lives. However, legal battles and delays meant that it was not until 1789 that the St. Ann Vestry began operating the institution as the Drax Free School.

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For further information contact:

Tamika Clough | Public Relations and Marketing Officer

Jamaica National Heritage Trust | tamikaclough@jnht.com CUG: 876-227-3310