I’m reaching out with an urgent plea for help. Hurricane Melissa has struck and severely damaged the historic Greenwood Great House, a true jewel of Jamaica’s heritage. The devastation has been heart-breaking to witness, especially for those who understand the deep cultural and historical value of this extraordinary place.

Greenwood Great House is not just a building — it’s a living piece of Jamaica’s soul.

I am one of the children of the family who has lovingly occupied and cared for Greenwood Great House for decades. This place is more than walls and timbers to us — it’s home. Surrounded by stories, visitors, and the living heartbeat of Jamaica’s past. Watching the hurricane tear through it has been one of the hardest things my family has ever experienced.

Built in the 18th century, this landmark is closely tied to the Barrett family (of Wimpole Street fame) and to the celebrated poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Remarkably, it stands as one of the few remaining great houses that survived the Jamaican uprisings, and it remains the only great house in Jamaica that still preserves authentic artifacts and furnishings from that era. These treasures tell the story of our island’s complex and often painful past — unfiltered and untouched by time.

Today, however, this priceless link to our history is in jeopardy.

Walls that once echoed with stories of resilience are now cracked and broken. Roofs that sheltered centuries of memory have been torn away. Without urgent restoration, we risk losing not only a historic landmark but a vital piece of Jamaica’s identity.

How You Can Help:

Every act of generosity — big or small — makes a difference. Here’s how you can help rebuild this national treasure:

Donate through this page - we are so grateful for each donation.

Share: Spread the word across your social media, WhatsApp groups, and community networks.

Encourage others: Every donation brings us one step closer to saving Greenwood Great House.

Together, we can preserve Jamaica’s past for future generations — ensuring that the lessons, stories, and spirit held within Greenwood Great House continue to inspire for centuries to come.

Also Bob's great grandson Leonidas will be doing a sponsored walk to school to raise money to help his Great Grandpappy restore the roof of Greenwood Great House.

Leonidas will be walking 2.1miles to school whilst singing his favourite Jamaican songs & Christmas songs on 16th December 2025.

Thanks for all your support in advance.

With heartfelt thanks from the Betton Family