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Former Tobago Treasury
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Historical site
The Former Tobago Treasury, located in Scarborough, is one of the island's most significant historical administrative buildings. Constructed in the 19th century, the building originally served as the headquarters for the colonial administration and the repository for the island's public finances. Its architecture is typical of the British colonial style of the era, characterized by functional aesthetics and a robust build designed to withstand tropical conditions. The building witnessed Tobago's economic transformation, from the plantation economy to its role as a modern administrative entity. Following extensive renovations, it now houses the Tobago Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, military relics, and documents detailing the history of slavery. It stands as a symbol of administrative autonomy and the preservation of the cultural identity of the people of Tobago.
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
- Top sights: Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago · Dwight Yorke Stadium · Shaw Park, Scarborough
- Nearby: Plymouth (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 82 | 43 | 37 | 42 | 89 | 161 | 165 | 170 | 138 | 179 | 189 | 148 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The former Tobago Treasury is usually open to the public, housing exhibits on the island's financial history. The historic building is also worth seeing from the outside, typical of colonial architecture.
Typical hours
Opening hours usually follow those of a museum: weekdays about 9 am to 5 pm, Saturdays possibly reduced. Sundays and public holidays the building is typically closed or only accessible by appointment.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed without flash in the exhibition rooms to protect delicate historic documents and banknotes. In some areas, photography may be prohibited - please look for signs.
Time needed
Visiting the exhibition takes about 45 minutes to an hour if you look at the exhibits carefully. With a walk around the building, you can allocate another 20 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with other historic buildings in Scarborough, such as the botanical garden or the church. The port and markets are also not far and provide good insight into local life.
Getting there
The former Treasury is located in central Scarborough, Tobago, and is reachable on foot from most central points. Buses and taxis from Crown Point or the airport stop nearby, parking on surrounding streets is limited.
Insider tip
Ask at the entrance if a small guide is available - often there are free brochures with background information. Plan your visit on a weekday, as the building is more likely to be open and less crowded.
Geography
Facts
- The building was constructed in the early 19th century in Scarborough.
- It currently serves as the official national museum of Tobago.
- The collection includes Amerindian artifacts dating back over 2,000 years.
- The site is located in close proximity to the historic Fort King George.
- During British colonial rule, it functioned as the island's custom house.
- Renovations in the late 20th century preserved the structure for museum use.
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 Former Tobago Treasury (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was the building before?
It was the official treasury of Tobago.
Can it be visited?
Only from the outside, as it is not a museum.
Is it architecturally interesting?
Yes, it shows the colonial style of the island very well.
Where exactly is it located?
In the historical center of the capital.
Is parking possible?
There are public parking lots nearby.
Former Tobago Treasury: where is it located?
Former Tobago Treasury is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Former Tobago Treasury: what is there to see?
Highlights include Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago, Dwight Yorke Stadium, Shaw Park, Scarborough.
Former Tobago Treasury: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Former Tobago Treasury: why is it worth visiting?
The Former Tobago Treasury, located in Scarborough, is one of the island's most significant historical administrative buildings.
Nearby cities
Chaguanas
The largest municipality of Trinidad, known for its vibrant markets.
San Fernando
The most populous city in the Trinidad region.
Port of Spain
The capital and third largest municipality of Trinidad and Tobago.
Arima
A major commercial hub in eastern Trinidad.
Scarborough
The capital and largest city of the island of Tobago.
History & landmarks
Fort King George
A well-preserved 18th-century fort in Tobago.
Fort Bennett
A smaller historic fort on the coast.
Fort King Peter
Historic coastal fort on Tobago.
Buccoo Reef
A significant marine protected area.
Nylon Pool
A naturally formed shallow sandbar in the sea.
Pigeon Point Jetty
Iconic wooden jetty on the beach of Tobago.
🗺️
Argyle Waterfall
The impressive waterfall site in Tobago.
Asa Wright Nature Centre
A paradise for nature lovers in the mountains.
More places
Historic Signal Station
Former station for ship communication.
🗺️
French Fort Tobago
Historic fortification in Tobago.
Dutch Settlement Site
Archaeological site of a Dutch colony.
Dutch Fort Tobago
Dutch fortification.
Tobago Sugar Works
Remains of a sugar manufactory.
Fort James
Fortification near Plymouth.
Fort Bennett
A historic fort built to protect Black Rock Bay in Tobago.
🗺️
Spanish Fort Tobago
Spanish fortification.