Description
Meet Alexander Hamilton on Nevis, the charming island where he was born.
Whether or not you read Ron Chernow’s 700+ page biography of Alexander Hamilton or have seen the Broadway play, “Hamilton," you will be enchanted by this storytelling visit to the historic and sublimely scenic island of Nevis. A leisurely, unhurried pace in this tour invites you to fully know the island as Alexander Hamilton almost certainly did.
From our mooring, a comfortable air-conditioned van will drive us into the island’s capital town of Charlestown, rich with Georgian architecture and charm all around. Upon alighting in front of the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, established in 1680, our guide, an engaging Nevisian-born gentleman, begins the tale with how young Hamilton, having been born of unwed parents and unable to attend school, nevertheless began educating himself. We will ‘meet’ some of Alexander's age-group friends through the stories their gravesites and gravestones tell. Next, we’ll cross the road and visit the fascinating Museum of Nevis History and the newer Alexander Hamilton Museum, entry fees included, on the same grounds. Our deeply knowledgeable guide will enhance both with his local and historical knowledge as well as tying current events and institutions (think the US Treasury, among others) to initiatives begun by Hamilton.
A slow drive through Charlestown heads to a stop at the Jewish Cemetery. Jews in 17th century Nevis? Who knew? When the sugar industry was developing in Nevis in the late 17th and 18th centuries and the Sephardic Jews were expelled from Brazil, many moved to Nevis and a substantial community developed. This small walled-in cemetery holds headstones dating from 1679, some with inscriptions in four languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish and Hebrew.
The story continues with a drive on the Main Road while noting the majestic Nevis Peak viewed from every side as we circumnavigate the island. We pass through scenic village of Gingerland, where Hamilton’s maternal grandparents lived, taking in views of the 18th century Methodist Church and the nearby islands of Montserrat and Antigua (clouds permitting).
The last stop on the tour is the remarkable ruin of Cottle Church, a 19th century testament to Blacks and Whites worshiping together and today the beautiful site of weddings and other gatherings. Our guide brings the story full circle in telling this history of the “Queen of the Caribees” – i.e., the historical nickname of Nevis.
Notes
Water is provided as well as chilled towels during this YLA. There is minimal walking although there are three-four small steps in several of the stops.
Duration
3 hour(s)
Price
199 (USD)