A few folks frolic in the pond in Salt River which is said to have great healing powers. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

OLD HARBOUR, St. Catherine:

Situated about four miles from Old Harbour and four from Rocky Point in Clarendon is a tiny piece of paradise known as Salt River.

The stream, a tributary of the Milk River, is said to have great medicinal properties and persons are warming to this miracle.

The Gleaner visited the location and found hundreds of persons had flocked to the area for their piece of the miracle.

"I use to visit here while in London and now I am living in May Pen, so each Sunday I find myself right here in the water," remarked Pauline Powell, a visitor.

The views of Powell were expressed by several other persons who went on to tell the story that the stream, which now settles between several rocks, helps to cure rheumatism, arthritis, back pain and several muscle diseases.

The water, which is said to change temperature dramatically, comes from a big rock The Gleaner observed most persons clinging to.

More investigations did suggest the water changes temperature, however, persons agree this isn't where the miracle lies.

"I take my mother there the other day; she had severe pain in her knee for 20-odd years and believe me, when she entered and walked out of the water, all the pain left her since. It's a miracle, man," said one visitor.

Mysteries

Other persons told of the history of the area, saying slaves used to heal their wounds there. At one point, residents say the area was fenced off and the water dried out. It has returned since the removal of the fence, adding mystery to the river many have now come to trust as their very own natural healer.

While some believe it is the mineral content in the water, caused from its travels through sulphuric rock formations, to others it is purely a miracle. To add to that gift is the fact that entering Salt Riveris absolutely free.

On a Sunday the place is abuzz with activities. There are persons selling from fish and festival to the promotion of several energy drinks and the interest doesn't seem to be waning.

- Rasbert Turner