Our History
More Than Two Centuries of Caymanian History
Built in 1780, Pedro St. James is one of the Cayman Islands’ most important historic landmarks. For more than two centuries, the Great House has witnessed defining moments in the development of the Cayman Islands and survived periods of prosperity, tragedy, abandonment and renewal.
Constructed at Pedro Point by William Eden, the impressive three-storey Great House was extraordinary for its time. The property formed part of a working plantation during a period when enslaved people were part of the labour force and economy of the Cayman Islands.
Throughout its history, Pedro St. James has served many purposes, including as a private residence, courthouse, jail, meeting place for government, restaurant and hotel.
Most importantly, Pedro St. James played a central role in two defining moments in Caymanian history. On 5 December 1831, a historic meeting held here led to the formation of the Islands’ first elected legislative body, earning Pedro St. James its enduring title as the “Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands.”
Just a few years later, on 3 May 1835, the proclamation confirming the end of slavery in the Cayman Islands was publicly read at Pedro St. James.
After surviving hurricanes, lightning strikes, fires and decades of deterioration, the property was purchased by the Cayman Islands Government in 1991 and underwent an extensive restoration programme.
Today, Pedro St. James National Historic Site preserves these stories and provides a place where Caymanians and visitors alike can connect with the people, events and experiences that helped shape the nation.
1780 — The Great House is Built
The story begins at Pedro Point.
William Eden constructs the three-storey Great House at Pedro Point. With its substantial stone walls, sweeping verandahs and imported materials, the building was unlike most homes found in the Cayman Islands at the time.
The surrounding property operated as a plantation during an era when enslaved people contributed to the labour and economy of the Islands.
1831 — The Birthplace of Democracy
A defining moment in Caymanian history.
On 5 December 1831, residents gathered at Pedro St. James for a historic meeting that led to the establishment of the Cayman Islands’ first elected legislative body.
This pivotal event established Pedro St. James as the Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands.
1835 — Emancipation is Proclaimed
A moment of profound national significance.
On 3 May 1835, Robert Thompson, acting on behalf of the Governor of Jamaica, held court at Pedro St. James and formally proclaimed the end of slavery in the Cayman Islands.
Pedro St. James therefore stands as a witness to two transformative chapters in Caymanian history: the development of representative government and emancipation.
1877 — Tragedy at the Great House
The Great House endured numerous hurricanes, fires and lightning strikes throughout its history.
In 1877, tragedy struck when lightning hit the building, and Mary Jane Eden was killed. The Eden family subsequently abandoned the property, beginning a prolonged period of deterioration.
By 1910, reports indicated that little more than the original stone walls remained.
1914 — The Great House is Rebuilt
The Hurlston family began restoring the Great House in 1914, bringing new life to the deteriorating property.
Despite their efforts, Pedro was once again abandoned by 1920.
1959 — A New Chapter
In 1959, Thomas Hubbell purchased a portion of the property and restored the Great House as a residence, living there until 1963.
The property later begins another chapter in its long history as a hospitality destination.
1967–1989 — Restaurant, Hotel & Further Destructio
Beginning in 1967, Pedro St. James operates as a restaurant and hotel.
A severe fire damaged the property in 1970, but the Great House was repaired and reopened as a restaurant in 1974.
Further hurricane and fire damage affected the property during the late 1980s. By 1989, the restaurant operation had closed and Pedro St. James once again stood vacant.
1991 — Preserving a National Treasure
Recognising the historical and cultural significance of Pedro St. James, the Cayman Islands Government purchased the property in 1991 to preserve it as a national historic site.
A comprehensive programme of historical research, conservation, restoration and interpretation follows.
1996 — Pedro St. James is Restored
Following an extensive restoration project and an investment of approximately $8 million, Pedro St. James emerges as a carefully preserved historic attraction.
The restoration ensures that the Great House and its remarkable history can be experienced by generations to come.
Today — A Living Connection to Our Past
Today, Pedro St. James National Historic Site welcomes Caymanians and visitors from around the world to discover more than two centuries of Caymanian history.
Through the Great House, historic grounds, exhibitions, guided experiences and storytelling, visitors can explore the events and people connected to this nationally significant place.
Pedro St. James is more than a historic building. It is a place where Cayman’s story continues to be preserved, shared and remembered.
1780 → 1831 → 1835 → 1877 → 1914 → 1959 → 1991 → 1996 → Today
Discover the Story. Experience the History.