Firefly Estate
Saint Mary
The Firefly Estate, located near Oracabessa in Saint Mary, Jamaica, was the Caribbean home of renowned playwright Sir Noël Coward. Built in 1956, the house is surprisingly modest despite Coward's status and his illustrious guests, which included royalty and celebrities such as Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Elizabeth Taylor. The estate sits atop a mountaintop with commanding views of St. Mary harbour, a location once used by pirate Sir Henry Morgan as a lookout. Today, Firefly Estate functions as a writer's house museum, preserving Coward's creative legacy and personal artifacts, including his paintings and photographs of famous friends. Visitors can also see Coward's grave in the garden, marked by a marble slab near the spot where he enjoyed watching sunsets. The estate features a statue of Coward gazing over the harbour and a stone hut that served as a lookout and was later converted into a bar and now operates as a gift shop and restaurant. Firefly Estate is recognized as a National Heritage Site by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, symbolizing its cultural and historical importance in Jamaica.
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Tip: The best time to visit Firefly Estate is during the late afternoon to enjoy the spectacular sunset views that inspired Sir Noël Coward. It's recommended to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets beforehand if available, as the site is popular among visitors. While there are no specific ticket discounts mentioned, visitors should inquire locally about any available concessions. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable due to the estate's hilltop location.
Interesting facts
- •The estate was originally owned by pirate Sir Henry Morgan, who used it as a lookout point.
- •Sir Noël Coward entertained notable guests including Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Elizabeth Taylor at Firefly.
- •Coward's last poem is inscribed on a wall at the estate, reflecting his deep connection to the place.
- •A statue of Sir Noël Coward gazing over the harbour stands on the lawn, commemorating his love for the location.
- •The stone hut on the property was once a lookout for Henry Morgan and later converted into a bar by Coward, now serving as a gift shop and restaurant.
History
Originally known as "Lawrencefield," the estate was first owned by Lawrence Prince before being purchased by the infamous pirate and governor Sir Henry Morgan in the 17th century.
Morgan used the site as a strategic lookout over St.
Mary harbour.
In the late 1950s, Sir Noël Coward acquired the property and transformed it into his Jamaican home and creative retreat.
Coward lived there until his death in 1973 and was buried on the grounds.
Over time, the estate was converted into a museum honoring Coward's life and work and was designated a National Heritage Site by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust.
Place Guide
The Main House1956
Built in 1956, the main house is modest yet historically significant as Coward's residence and creative sanctuary. It now serves as a museum showcasing his personal items and artwork.
Coward's Grave1973
Located in the garden near the spot where Coward enjoyed sunsets, the grave is marked by a marble slab, offering a poignant connection to the playwright.
Statue of Sir Noël Cowardnull
A statue on the lawn depicts Coward gazing out over the blue harbour, symbolizing his deep affection for the estate and its views.
Stone Hut (Gift Shop and Restaurant)17th century (original lookout)
Originally a lookout used by Henry Morgan, later converted by Coward into a bar, the stone hut now functions as a gift shop and restaurant for visitors.
Firefly Art Studionull
This studio houses Coward's paintings and photographs of his famous friends, offering insight into his artistic pursuits beyond writing.