The part of the original Kingston, which only started to exist in the 1690s, after Port Royal's destruction by earthquake in 1692, which has always fascinated me most, is the Parade. The Parade increasingly became the centre of Kingston's life as a community, though Harbour and Port Royal Streets, and the waterfront wharves formed the commercial heart. Some time soon I must do a real section of a site on Parade - now I am just recording Walter Hodge's pet project in the second half of 1891. I haven't found too much yet about Mr. Hodge, and I doubt I will find his picture - but one keeps looking!
The first mention of the KIOSK came in July 1891:
The first mention of the KIOSK came in July 1891:
Daily Gleaner, July 11, 1891
Amusements for the People. City Councillor W. de B. Hodge has been active in his endeavours to provide the means whereby the populace should have some place of resort after their working hours. It was at his instigation and with the support of one or two members of the Council that a resolution was passed whereby the Parade Gardens were allowed to be opened till 9 o'clock every evening. A contract was entered into with the Electric Light Company to supply light in the Park for 6 months; this contract will expire in September and it is Mr. Hodge's intention, and we trust he will succeed in renewing the arrangement. The Park is regularly attended on Band Evenings, and the public have thereby shown their appreciation of the provision that has been made for them. Mr. Hodge has now followed on his initial move by applying to the Col. and Officer of the 1st. W. I. Regt. asking that they would allow their band to play in the Park on alternative weeks with the K.V.M. Band. In reply Mr. Hodge has received the following letter: 8th July 1891 Gentlemen -- It would afford the officers of the 1st Battalion West India Regiment and myself great pleasure to comply with your request that the Band of the Regiment should play once a fortnight in the Kingston Parade Gardens. The second and fourth Thursdays in each month will be the most convenient days for the band to play in the gardens. If lamps and lights are also required I presume you are prepared to supply them. A conveyance for the Band Master will also be necessary. The Band will be unable to play at least for a fortnight as they are now going through their annual course of musketry. Notification will be made when they are finished. I remain, Yours faithfully, L. Loveridge, Lt. Col. 1st. Bat. W. I. Reg. [4/5 lines illegible at bottom of column]
Views of the Parade in the 1880s-'90s
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The next step was to get the right backing for the idea:
Daily Gleaner, August 5, 1891
According to appointment Councillor Hodge at 1:30 p.m. yesterday, had an interview with Mr. Fawcett, at the Jamaica Institute, regarding the Parade Gardens. Mr. Fawcett expressed his entire satisfaction with the proposals of Mr. Hodge in having a Kiosk erected in the gardens for the sale of refreshments, and also an enclosure around the Band Stand where chairs will be placed and rented at a moderate price. Mr. Hodge, acting under the advice of Mr. Fawcett, will present a resolution at the meeting of the City Council this evening dealing with the matter, a copy of which resolution will be forwarded to the Colonial Secretary for his sanction and approval. [William Fawcett was Director of Public Gardens and Plantations in Jamaica from 1887 to 1908.] . . . then the return to the City Council - Daily Gleaner, August 6, 1891 PARADE GARDENS. It was agreed that tenders be advertised for: to remove and re-erect the fountains in the Gardens. Councillor Hodge moved that the rules of the Council be suspended to permit him to move the following resolution, which was carried. That with the view of affording additional facilities to the General Public who frequent the Parade Gardens : — Resolved that the Major General Administering the Government be asked to Sanction a grant of ₤40 from the Parochial Surplus Fund, for the purpose of erecting a small and ornamental octagonal Building (Kiosk) where light refreshments may be provided; and also, to defray expense of a neat wire enclosure around the Band stand, in order that chairs or other sitting accommodation may be obtained within the same, at a nominal rate of charge. The proceeds to be derived therefrom to go towards a fund to be established by this Council, to meet current expenses for the uses of the Parade Gardens. |
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. . . and things moved on at the Council -
Over the next few weeks a Gleaner columnist took quite an interest in the Kiosk -
Daily Gleaner, August 29, 1891
The Gleaner's Note Book - Scrutator Last Thursday night was a gala night in the Park when the Band of the W.I.R. made their bi-weekly appearance and I am sure Councillor Hodge, whom I saw present, must have felt fully rewarded for the time and trouble he has devoted in connection with this matter. The selections for the evening were played in a perfect manner and on every side could be heard eulogistic remarks referring to the performances of the men. I hear a whisper that the Kiosk which is proposed will be a grand affair if Councillor Hodge can get his plans approved by the, Council and I don't think there is much fear, now that the money for the purpose has been voted, that he will be thwarted in his designs. He proposes to make an octagonal building, each side being about six feet across, and there will be four glass entrance doors. The cost of this will I believe be about ₤25. * * * The outside circle will be enclosed by a mesh wire fence, of unusual strength, and room will be provided for about 500 chairs which will be rented at a very nominal fee for the evening. In the Kiosk Itself refreshment will be provided and there can be no doubt that with ordinary care and prudence, the undertaking will be a most successful one. For my own part, I would advocate the opening of the park an hour later on band nights. Many persons remain in the vicinity of the band until "God Save the Queen" has concluded the proceedings and would be glad to have the opportunity of strolling around the grounds for an hour or so afterwards, and unless you are provided with a steel inside or perhaps a non-conductor of cold, it would be impossible to go to the Kiosk and get your ice-cream down before the gates were shut. We have little enough amusement here, and one hour more in a week, speaking mathematically means two days and 4 hours in the year. Think over it—Two solid days amusement—and I'm sure you will back me up. and a week later -
Daily Gleaner September 5, 1891
The Gleaner's Note Book - Scrutator I am able to put before my readers this week a sketch illustrating Councillor Hodge's idea of the Kiosk. This has not as yet been adopted by the Council, but l don't believe there is much fear of their rejecting it. As I explained last week the building which is octagonal will be raised 18 inches from the ground, and will be ten feet in height. Above that the roof will gradually come to a point upon which a flagstaff and ball will be placed. It was at first intended to have the roof dome-shaped as is usual in a kiosk, but this was found to a great extent impossible. The doorways, of which there are four, will be 8 feet wide by 7 feet in height, and entered by means of three steps. The roof will overlap two feet, and will be painted in bright colours. Mr. Hodge had a meeting with the Director of the Public Gardens (Mr. Fawcett) yesterday week, and that gentleman quite approved of everything so far as the building was concerned. The only alteration which he made in the plan was that of [ ? ] and enclosure. Mr. Hodge proposed in this enclosure to accommodate 500 people with chairs but Mr. Fawcett (who has evidently attended the performances of the bands) increased the space so that 700 or 800 could be seated. The enclosure will now extend from the road-way on the North side to the ditch on the South side. By the drain shrubs will be planted closely so that persons will be unable to crowd around and damage the fence, which will run around the enclosure, The distance from the bandstand to the outer fence on the West side will be thirty feet and from the pathway to the drain 76 feet. On the right from the band stand to the little bridge will be 48 feet. The whole of the square being taken in. There will only be one centre gate, built of iron, and about three feet across. The cost of the whole will, with Mr. Fawcett's addition be about £50 or a little more (£10) than that voted already by the Council.
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. . . meanwhile a 'Casual Observer' had some comments, giving an interesting glimpse of the people in the Gardens in the 1890s:
Daily Gleaner, September 3, 1891
THE PARADE GARDENS. REMARKS BY A CASUAL OBSERVER. Now that the Major General the officer administering the Government has been pleased on the application of the City Council, to grant permission for the keeping open of the Park, for some months, till nine o'clock at nights, the character of the Park as a place of resort in the evenings may be considered as well established. That being so it would be well were the Park authorities to bestir themselves and make it worthy of its name and the purposes for which it exists. But a short while ago the Park gates were closed at the: setting of the sun, foot passengers from Upper King Street or its vicinity to lower King St. on its neighbourhood, and vice versa, were compelled in consequence to adopt a circuitous route. The weary and toil-worn citizen was deprived of a cool quiet shady spot where in the eventime he might enjoy his after dinner cigar or pipe in the open and get a little fresh air. This has all been changed and owing to the persistent efforts of Councillor Hodge, the band of the West India Regiment and of the Kingston Volunteer Militia discourse sweet music in the Park on alternate Thursday evenings—Nor is this all, arrangements are being made when very shortly reserved seats will be available for a small fee in an enclosure surrounding the Band Stand and the Kiosk will soon be erected. The Park however, requires much attention on the part of the authorities responsible for its up-keep and appearance. On band nights visitors to the Park find but one of the north gates open, whereas there are three, and the inconvenience to the public of one outlet to the North on the closing of the Park can be well imagined. The walks are |
very much too narrow and the edges of the beds are unprotected by iron railings or edging, and as a consequence the beds are walked on and the grass trodden down so much so that in many parts the edges of the beds are entirely effaced. Here and there the visitors in the daytime may observe the notice "Please keep to the path," but such notices are disregarded when there is a concourse of persons moving about. The western side of the Park is little short of a desert and apparently only the minimum amount of care is bestowed on it. The trees growing near the edges of the beds have been allowed to overhang the walks and in many places so low do the branches hang as to jeopardize the faces and hats of the passers-by. Again in several places some plant has been allowed to form a dark recess thus making a hiding place for some uncanny tramp to ensconce himself and frighten lone passers-by. In addition to the above in many places along the walks the water hydrants are several inches above the ground and pedestrians cannot avoid coming in contact with them and thus run the risk of falling.
I also notice that wire fencing has lately been run round the iron fences of the park to exclude fowls and thus to save the destruction to the plants and flowers by them, which at times must have been very dispiriting to the managers. But how is it that many more of the beds have not been stocked with plants and flowers instead of being allowed to be bare! And how is it also that persons are allowed to tether horses to the southern and western rails? The lighting of the gardens is not as it should be, especially at the west end. I advocate the erection of at least one other carbon light; this is a matter which the city authorities should look to at once. |
The City Council continued to move Councillor Hodge's project forward, along with other business:
Daily Gleaner, September 10, 1891
CITY COUNCIL GAS LAMP'S FOR BROWNS TOWN A letter was read from the Gas Commissioner promising to erect the lamp ordered by the Council as early as possible. NEW STREET SPRINKLER. Mr. McKenzies' tender for 11s. per day was accepted. THE KIOSK. A report was read from the Committee appointed to look into the above matter recommending that the offer and price submitted by the Electric Company for lighting the building be accepted. A letter was also read from the Secretary of the same company expressing their regret to take less for the lighting of the Park than the rate of the present Contract, they were however willing to make a concession by giving extra lights. The report of the Committee recommending the continuation of the Contract was adopted. |
Daily Gleaner, September 17, 1891
CITY COUNCIL THE KIOSK, The surveyors specification and plans for a Kiosk were submitted. Mr. Hodge moved that they be accepted and tenders be advertised for. Mr. .Burton seconded and the resolution was carried. |
Daily Gleaner, October 19, 1891
Mr. Lazarus the Contractor for the erection of the Kiosk in the Parade Gardens is proceeding rapidly with the work. Daily Gleaner, November 14, 1891 The Kiosk which is being erected in the Victoria Gardens is now being painted and will be handed over to the Mayor and Council on a day next week Daily Gleaner, November 18, 1891 The kiosk in the Parade Gardens has been handed over to the Mayor and Council by Mr. C. P. Lazarus, the contractor. |
click on the pictures below to find out more about this remarkable man -
. . . and 'Scrutator' again -
Daily Gleaner, October 10, 1891
The Gleaner's Note Book - Scrutator The band in the Park, too, on Thursday nights is increasing greatly in popularity and I have no doubt that when the Kiosk is in full swing, Myrtle Bank band playing the hotel, and the Smoking Concerts and Home and Colonial's busy, we should not have cause to complain. lt seems as if the young men of the city were waking up to a sense of their responsibility. * * * From a little tip which I received, I believe the Kiosk is to be but a stepping stone to greater things. If it is well patronized, if people generally show an interest and appreciate the entertainment provided for them, I believe Councillor Hodge will have a go at the Theatre. That building either should be put into thorough good condition or a new Theatre built. The cost of course would be very great, but it would not take very much to pay the interest upon the sum required, and if popular and cheap entertainments were given weekly, and foreign companies induced to try their fortunes here, the interest could easily be raised. No doubt if the Council see that their efforts to cater to the public are valued, they will be encouraged to still further proceed in the good work they have commenced. [There were indeed very many complaints about the dilapidated state of the Theatre Royal, which had been constructed in the 1830s!] |
Opening of the Kiosk
Daily Gleaner
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21 1891 MUSIC FOR THE PEOPLE. Councillor Hodge must have experienced a deep sense of exultation and gratification on Thursday evening last in the Parade Gardens upon witnessing the triumphant result of the labours to which for the past couple of months he has devoted his whole attention and energy. When the question of building a Kiosk was first mooted, the members of the Council regarded it rather apathetically but by dint of perseverance and by his ardour he gained his object. The scene in the Park was one never to be forgotten, the number of people present far exceeding any previous record and at times their enthusiasm apparently could not be kept within bounds. The band of the West Indian Regiment who made their last appearance previous to their departure for West Africa excelled themselves and played with a verve which provoked a perfect furore of cheers from their audience. The heartiness and cordiality, with which their selections were received, furnished abundant proof that "the masses" in Jamaica are a music-loving people and should encourage our City Fathers to continue in the course they have adopted in endeavouring to afford some little relaxation for the populace. |
The rest of the year seems to have been spent in sorting out the details of the contract, to run the Kiosk, with Mr. Rondon, well-known for his ice-cream,, especially over the charge for chairs in the enclosure, and whether he could open on Sundays.
Daily Gleaner, November 26, 1891
COMPLETION OF KIOSK. The City Surveyor reported that the Kiosk had been completed to his satisfaction at a cost of £63. An agreement was read between the Council and Mr. J. M. Rondon giving the latter power to sell ice-cream and non-intoxicants for the sum of £23 for six months. A letter was read from Mr. Rondon with reference to the prohibition, in the agreement, of sales on Sundays and submitting that the Kiosk would be a counter attraction to the taverns in the vicinity of the Park. Mr. Brandon moved that the Sunday clause be eliminated from the agreement. Mr. Wales thought the question should have been settled long ago. He moved that the words "not to sell on Sundays and other days of religions observances" be made "not to sell on Sundays." Mr. Hodge seconded the resolution. Mr. Brandon altered his motion to the words "to be sold on Sundays but not during the hours of Divine Service." Mr. Abbott said he should be sorry to see the Kiosk opened on Sundays as it would be against the wishes of the people. It was eventually resolved that the Kiosk be closed on Sundays only. It was agreed that Mr. Rondon be allowed until 10 o'clock to-day to sign the amended contract and failing this that tenders for the lease of the Kiosk be advertised for. |
Daily Gleaner, November 28, 1891
The Gleaner's Note Book - Scrutator A good deal of dissatisfaction has been expressed at the manner in which the Kiosk has been disposed of by the members of the committee. No one doubts Mr. Rondon's capabilities in the least, but regret has been expressed that he has not obtained possession of the building in a proper manner. Tenders should have been sent out in the usual way that everyone interested might have an opportunity of competing. As it was, nothing was known, even by some of the members of the Board, of Mr. Rondon's rental of the Kiosk and when the agreement was brought up for confirmation it came as a complete surprise. The precedent is a bad one and I trust the Council will in future express their disapprobation of such proceedings. As to the Sunday opening question, a great deal may be said both pro and con, but for my part, I heartily concur in the decision arrived at. Daily Gleaner, November 30, 1891 A Petition is being numerously and influentially signed by citizens to be presented to the City Council asking of that body to reconsider their determination in re, Cream and Cakes being sold in the Kiosk on Sundays excepting during Divine Worship. |
Daily Gleaner, December 12, 1891
We are requested to state that according to the contract of Mr. Rondon with the City Council no more that one penny can be demanded for a seat within the enclosure. The Kiosk is now open every day (except Sunday) until nine o'clock at night for the sale of refreshments. Daily Gleaner, December 16, 1891 Petitions from several churches will be presented at this evening's meeting of the Council against the sale of refreshments in the Kiosk in the Parade Gardens on Sundays. Daily Gleaner, December 16, 1891 THE KIOSK After the minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed Councillor Wales put his question of which he had given notice regarding the admission fee charged by Mr. Rondon on the opening night of the Kiosk. Mr. Bondon's reply was read. He stated stated that he was not aware that he was compelled to charge but one penny. As he had no means of checking his receipts on the night in question he did not feel called upon to make any refund. Councillor Wales thought the answer a most unsatisfactory one. Councillor Delgado also thought that the answer was unsatisfactory but as the Chairman of the Park Committee was not present he thought the matter should stand over until next meeting—agreed. OPENING OF THE KIOSK ON SUNDAYS Petitions were read from various Churches asking the Council not to grant permission for the Kiosk to be opened on Sundays. It was agreed that the petitioners be informed that the law settled the question. |
The Kiosk continued to operate, at some level, through the 1890s; the latest references I have so far are in 1900, when the Kiosk was being operated by Margaret M. Loche, then proprietress of the Eureka Hotel, on Duke Street, and formerly of the Clarendon House hotel, on East Street, at the current location of the offices of Myers, Fletcher and Gordon. I hope to find out more, but that will have to be another day!