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Lacovia Tombstones
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The Lacovia Tombstones are a curious and poignant historical landmark located directly on the main road in St. Elizabeth. These two 18th-century stone monuments mark the final resting place of two young men, Thomas Jordan Spencer and John S. Maddison, who allegedly died in a simultaneous duel in 1738. Local legend suggests the duel was fought over a beautiful young woman, though historical records hint at a social dispute. Unusually, they were buried exactly where they fell, leading to the tombs being positioned at the edge of the busy A2 highway. Thomas Jordan Spencer is of particular interest as he was a relative of the ancestors of both Sir Winston Churchill and Diana, Princess of Wales. The tombstones, featuring intricate carvings and family crests, provide a rare glimpse into the code of honor and the social fabric of the colonial planter class in Jamaica's interior during the early 18th century.
- Location: Jamaica
- Nearby: Montego Bay (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 48 | 24 | 37 | 56 | 141 | 102 | 76 | 100 | 141 | 171 | 102 | 50 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Lacovia tombstones are a roadside monument freely accessible at any time. They are an unusual historical sight.
Typical hours
Being outdoors, they have no visiting hours. Best visited during daylight to read the inscriptions.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions. The tombstones make an atmospheric subject, especially in low sunlight.
Time needed
A brief stop of 10 to 15 minutes is enough to view the tombstones. Read the legend explained on a panel.
Combine with
Combine the stop with a visit to the nearby Black River Safari. The beaches of Treasure Beach are also not far.
Getting there
The tombstones are along the main B6 road between Lacovia and Middle Quarters. Easily reachable by car; park on the roadside.
Insider tip
Stop only briefly as there is no proper parking. Read the story of the duelists in advance to better understand the site.
Geography
Facts
- The tombstones mark the site of a fatal duel that occurred in 1738.
- Thomas Jordan Spencer, buried here, is a distant relative of the Churchill-Spencer line.
- Both participants of the duel reportedly died instantly and were buried where they fell.
- The tombs are located directly on the roadside of the main A2 highway in Lacovia.
- The inscriptions on the stones reflect the high social status of the deceased.
- Lacovia served as the administrative capital of St. Elizabeth until 1779.
- The site is protected as a National Monument of historical and genealogical value.
- The white limestone monuments have survived over 280 years of environmental exposure.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lacovia Tombstones (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Lacovia tombstones?
Unusually, they are located in the middle of a main road and date back to the 18th century.
Who is buried there?
They are the graves of Thomas Jordan Spencer and a young man named Barnaby.
Does it cost anything to visit?
No, they are located on a public road and can be viewed for free.
Where exactly in Jamaica are the graves located?
They are located in the village of Lacovia in the parish of St. Elizabeth.
What is the legend behind the graves?
It is said the two men died during a duel at a local tavern.
Lacovia Tombstones: where is it located?
Lacovia Tombstones is located in Jamaica.
Lacovia Tombstones: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Lacovia Tombstones: why is it worth visiting?
The Lacovia Tombstones are a curious and poignant historical landmark located directly on the main road in St.
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