Blenheim battered but Busta’s monument escapes Melissa’s wrath
Published:Wednesday | November 12, 2025 | 12:25 AM
WESTERN BUREAU:
Amid the widespread destruction left behind in Hanover, one remarkable symbol of resilience remains: the monument to Jamaica’s first prime minister and National Hero, Sir Alexander Bustamante. Against all odds, the historic site in Blenheim escaped Hurricane Melissa’s fury almost unscathed, losing only a small section of its thatched roof.
When The Gleaner visited the location on Monday, caretaker Steve Mahon was already at work restoring the grounds to their usual charm. Mowing the lawn as chickens pecked through clippings, he expressed quiet gratitude.
“We did not get any damage as such, only the thatch on the roof. Some of it blow off and such, but nothing much,” said Mahon, glancing proudly around the well-kept property.
While a few mango trees lost branches, the signature palm trees and entrance signs remained untouched. Mahon believes that the site is ready to welcome visitors again.
“The little clean-up, which was needed, has been done. As you can see, I am now cutting the lawn so the property is ready to take in visitors,” he said.
Beyond the monument’s gates, however, the Blenheim community, where Bustamante was born 141 years ago and where his reconstructed childhood home stands, was otherwise devastated. Homes, farms, roads, and basic infrastructure were torn apart, leaving residents struggling to rebuild. Yet the monument stood like a rare reminder of strength in a sea of loss. Many homes are now draped in blue tarpaulin.
“The vast majority of the community has been badly damaged. A lot of the homes have been messed up badly. The people around here have suffered a lot of damage,” said Mahon. “I see really tough times ahead for many people.”
GRATEFUL
He considers himself fortunate.
“Luckily, I never suffered much damage at my home, for which I am thankful … . The Lord has been very good to me,” he added.
Other residents were less hopeful. Many voiced frustration, saying that they have been abandoned by their political representatives in their time of greatest need.
“We have not seen any councillor, mayor, or member of parliament, which is hardly surprising since the PNP (People’s National Party) are in charge in Hanover and they see us as Bustamante people – Labourites (Jamaica Labour Party supporters),” charged an elderly woman. “I hope the prime minister (Dr Andrew Holness) reads your story and sends us some help. We are his people and we badly need help.”
Teenager Doris Barnes was pessimistic.
“With all the schools damaged, don’t see us going back to the school this year, and we no have electricity and water in what is left of my house, plus the mosquito invasion. All I can see going forward is misery,” she said. “I don’t think I can manage this for much longer.”