Parish: Westmoreland
The Savanna-la-Mar Baptist Church, established in 1835, is a key historical landmark in Jamaica. The original structure was destroyed by fire on November 23, 1839, but was rebuilt in 1840, demonstrating the resilience of its congregation.
The church features a simple, yet striking design with a rectangular floor plan and a symmetrical facade. Four pointed arch windows arranged in the shape of a crucifix give the building a spiritual presence. Two projecting porches shelter the entrances, while five large pointed arch windows on each side provide natural light. The steep gable-ended roof complements the church’s form and helps it endure the tropical climate.
For nearly two centuries, Savanna-la-Mar Baptist Church has been a symbol of faith and community. It continues to play an important role in the lives of its congregants and the wider community in Westmoreland.