64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Jamaica
: (876) 920-4926-30 | : info@mot.gov.jm
64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Jamaica
: (876) 920-4926-30 | : info@mot.gov.jm
The Devon House Heritage Site is owned by the Government of Jamaica, and falls directly under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism. The property is currently managed by The Devon House Development Limited, which became operational in February 2002 to oversee the re-development of Devon House, and manage its promotion and maintenance as the premier cultural attraction and center of activity in the capital city.
Built in 1881, on a 32 acre estate, the mansion now reposes in an 11 acre landscaped environment set well back from the roads that intersect between Hope and Waterloo Roads. Its lush, sprawling lawns provide an ambience that soothes the mind and soul, and offers an enviable shopping experience for both local and overseas visitors. Patrons to Devon House can partake in the fascinating history of the site, which was built by Jamaica’s first black millionaire George Stiebel
National Monument
The mansion has been a designated national monument since September 1990. The Ministry of Tourism manages the property and maintains it through its agencies, the Tourism Enhancement Fund and the Tourism Product Development Company.
Devon House underwent its first restoration in the 1960’s under the supervision of architect Tom Concannon assisted by Raymond McIntyre. In 1974, the mansion was refurbished for the second time in the Victorian style. The interior was refurbished by Mr. Sergio Dello Strologo and Mr. Raymond McIntyre undertook the task of restoring the mansion from its use as an art gallery to its original status as a private dwelling. During this time the crystal chandelier in the ballroom dating from George Stiebel’s time was found broken in two parts. It was restored by John Thompson. The restoration of the antique furniture located for the house was done by Mr. Robin Morris. In 1984, the mansion was reopened to the public.
Now fully restored to the former glory, this national landmark is of primary importance and stands as a “center of excellence” in the nation’s capital. Visitors to Devon House can tour the mansion and experience a walk back in time, enjoy the peace and quiet of the lush lawns and gardens or shop or dine in any of the several establishments on site.
This historical site enjoys prominence of location and the mansion’s status as an architectural gem is unchallenged. It forms a tangible part of Jamaica’s history, with its origins reaching back as far as early as the 17th century, when original structures that still form part of the present mansion were constructed. Devon House’s status remained undiminished throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, and today constitutes an iconic feature of Jamaica’s record of the past.
Management of the Devon House Historical Mansion
A management team consisting of an Executive Director, a Property Manager, Marketing and Events Manager and an Accountant undertakes the day to day operations of the Devon House Heritage Site. Support staff includes an Administrative Assistant, Tour Guides, and Ancillary and Ground Staff. A Board of Directors is appointed by the Minister of Tourism and Entertainment and overseas the overall management of the property.
Vision Statement:
Devon House presents a unique and extraordinary opportunity for multiple experiences in a center of excellence in the city, combining heritage, park facilities, restaurants and shopping for the best of what is authentically Jamaican. Here, the arts, education and entertainment co-exist to give Jamaicans and tourists alike a space that appeals to the senses.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to preserve an environment which combines an historic setting of a heritage site with the natural beauty of its surroundings to offer our visitors an authentic Jamaican experience.
Board of Directors
• Mrs. Minion Wright
• Mr. Donovan Betancourt
• Mrs. Dawn Hyde
• Mr. Errol Jones
• Ms. Debbie-Ann Gordon
• Mr. Stephen Facey
• Mrs. Dorothy Carter-Bradford
• Mrs. Rose Tavares-Finson
Executive Director – Ms. Georgeia Robinson
Visit and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/devonhouseja
For details on George Stiebel, original owner and builder of Devon House: https://www.devonhouseja.com/
For details of the mansion: https://www.devonhouseja.com/property-history