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Just outside of town is the Parkinson Plantation who’s great house was destroyed by fire in the mid 80’s. It still has a beautiful overlook view of Negril, the Great Morass, etc. as well as the “big tree” that is said to be over 900 years old. I’ve heard rumors in recent years that it’s not too safe to go up there and that there are “teefes” waiting to ambush those who do. Is that simply a rural legend or does someone have some more recent information on the subject?
Been up there a couple times myself and loved it up there. I have heard the same about safety issues, and would also like to know the rest of the story.
With all due respect to Paul Harvey, there really isnt much to the rest of the story...
The "plantation house" is a burned down decaying remnant of the Colonial past. It is located in a spot that allowed the owners to survey their entire plantation in privacy, but that is history now. In the 70's, it was still used as a place for the hippies to crash, but when it burned, it became a "ruin attraction" to visit.
As with any decaying, non-protected, non-maintained ruin, you are subject to the potential injuries from nature taking its toll on the remaining structures. So be careful and watch your step.
A simple common sense guide would be never to visit the place on your own. People who mean others "ill-will" generally take advantage when you are the most vulnerable. Remember this is a burned down, falling down ruin of a once beautiful mansion. It was isolated from its neighbors on purpose when built, so you are essentially on your own should you go there on your own. I too have heard many "rumor mill" stories, none I have been able to verify first hand. But why take the chance on your own when that risk can easily be avoided?
My advice would be sure to hire a driver to take you there, such as those listed in our transportation section. They can be your tour guide and explain the history of the property. It was glorious in its heyday. I would definitely advise against night visits as there is no electric lighting anywhere there. The chance of a twisted ankle increases astronomically!
Unfortunately, in this new world we live in, even the most innocent things we do on a daily basis, such as standing in line to catch a metro train can end in tragedy. But while on vacation, especially when visiting burned down ruins there are ways to minimize risks.
The ruins (and that OLD tree) are really something to see, but be smart about it. And that pretty much applies to everyplace we go now.
Go and enjoy, but use your head.
Y'all listen to the man!
Cap
Thanks Rob. Went there the first time with a guide and the second time alone, with no problems. That was 10 yrs ago though. If we go again we will find a local to take us.
Thanks Rob. Sage advice. Me take me homies when me go :)