Historic Ruins Discovered at Great Mountain
Potential historic plantation ruins, including structures resembling holding cells, have been uncovered during restoration work at a natural spring in Great Mountain. Minister for Communications and Works Hon. Kye Rymer announced that historical experts are investigating the site to determine its background. Officials believe the location could eventually serve as a new cultural heritage attraction for visitors and residents.
Potential historic ruins that may date back to the plantation era have been uncovered in Great Mountain during ongoing restoration work at a local natural spring. The discovery was shared by Fifth District Representative and Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer, during the Fifth District Dialogues.
According to Rymer, the original scope of the project was focused on revitalising the community's natural spring, a site long cherished by residents who historically used the fresh water source for domestic chores such as washing clothes and vehicles. While carrying out the restoration work, teams uncovered unexpected structural features that suggest an earlier historic use of the property.
Among the findings were structures described as possible jail or holding cells, prompting authorities to bring in specialists to evaluate the grounds. Rymer explained that experts have visited the site to conduct formal research and assess whether the area once formed part of a historic plantation estate.
He noted that while preliminary observations suggest significant historical value, full details will only be released once the historical investigations and reviews are concluded. In addition to the ongoing historical assessments, extensive infrastructure upgrades are currently taking place in the area.
Work crews are constructing retaining walls, enhancing road infrastructure, and preparing to clear the parking lot to provide safe, reliable access for residents and future visitors. Government officials believe that confirming the site's historical significance could transform the Great Mountain spring into a prominent heritage attraction.
Such a development would offer cultural value to the territory while expanding opportunities for local tour and taxi operators who transport visitors to historical landmarks across Tortola. Rymer reiterated that while plans are moving forward to integrate the spring into the local tourism landscape, confirmation of the site's precise history remains pending until researchers complete their analysis.
Primary source: VINO