Charles Town, near Buff Bay in Portland, is a historic Maroon settlement established around 1754 and officially named in 1832, previously known as New Crawford Town. Unlike other Maroon communities hidden in mountain valleys, Charles Town is located on the coastal plains, making it more accessible while preserving its rich cultural heritage. It is one of Jamaica’s four major Maroon settlements, alongside Accompong, Scotts Hall, and Moore Town.
Closely tied to Quao, a celebrated Maroon leader, the community features the Charles Town Maroon Museum, a library with heritage resources, and the Asafu Ground, a ceremonial space for annual celebrations in June. These vibrant events honor Maroon ancestors through drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
Charles Town uniquely blends Maroon and non-Maroon residents, with Jamaican Vernacular architecture lining its streets. Its sacred Maroon cemetery, carefully maintained by the community, serves as a resting place for ancestors. Charles Town stands as a testament to Maroon resilience, culture, and history, showcasing the enduring legacy of Jamaica’s first freedom fighters.