THIS EMANCIPATION Day, August 1, Devon House will be attempting to show that they are more than a place to get great ice cream or to relax on a lazy Sunday afternoon, by staging 'Emancipation Ring Ding'.
The day's events will feature a combination of educational activities, mainly geared toward young children and an entertainment package. Janice Francis-Lindsay, Promotions Co-ordinator, stated that persons can expect to spend the day, or simply come for a part of the process.
The educational aspect features a 'Children's Forum' which will feature eight of the major scholarship winners from this year's GSAT examinations. The students will lead the discussion. Those gathered will also be encouraged to participate.
'Emancipation Ring Ding' will also include a Story Walk. This walk will serve to educate those attending about the history of Devon House. It will also include a tour of the areas which used to be a part of the original 600-acre property as well as the present property. This will include information about what the present building used to be in the Devon House estate. For example, persons might find it interesting that the shops at Devon House are now housed in what used to be the servant's quarters.
The 'Walk' will aim to elaborate on common knowledge about the property. The most prominent bit of information is that the Great House was constructed by George Steibel, Jamaica's first black millionaire. It will also attempt to trace the history of the property since its ownership by the Church of England in the 17th century.
Drums will also be explored in 'Emancipation Ring Ding'. A part of the Institute of Jamaica's drum exhibition will be brought to the property. Participants will be taught about different kinds of drums and the origin of the drums. They will also learn about the use of the drums during slavery and be introduced to basic drum rhythms.
An art booth will also be opened which will feature children's artistic impressions of the tour.
The 'Ring Ding' portion of the day will feature a concert featuring Amina Blackwood-Meeks, who conceptualised the day, as well as the Carifolk Singers and a Jonkunnu Band. The concert will take place on the East Lawn.
