Middlesex County, Jamaica facts for kids
Middlesex County is one of the three historic counties that make up the island nation of Jamaica. These counties were created a long time ago, in 1758, to help organize the island. Middlesex County is located in the central part of Jamaica. It includes five important areas called parishes.
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What is a County?
A county is like a large region or division within a country. In Jamaica, counties were set up many years ago to help with government and administration. Even though they are still recognized, the main way Jamaica is organized today is by its 14 parishes. Think of counties as older, larger divisions that group several parishes together.
Parishes of Middlesex County
Middlesex County is made up of five distinct parishes. Each parish has its own unique history, geography, and communities.
Clarendon Parish
Clarendon is one of the largest parishes in Jamaica. It is known for its rich agricultural lands, where crops like sugar cane and citrus fruits are grown. The parish capital is May Pen, a busy town that serves as a commercial center for the area.
Manchester Parish
Manchester Parish is located in the cool central highlands of Jamaica. It is famous for its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. The capital, Mandeville, is one of the few parish capitals in Jamaica not located on the coast. It's a quiet town known for its educational institutions.
Saint Ann Parish
Saint Ann is often called the "Garden Parish" because of its lush landscapes and many beautiful attractions. It is a very popular tourist destination, home to famous spots like Dunn's River Falls. The capital of Saint Ann is Saint Ann's Bay, a historic coastal town.
Saint Catherine Parish
Saint Catherine is one of the most populated parishes in Jamaica. It plays a very important role in the country's history and economy. Spanish Town, its capital, was once the capital of Jamaica when it was a Spanish colony and later under British rule. It has many historic buildings.
Saint Mary Parish
Saint Mary Parish is located on the northeastern coast of Jamaica. It is known for its fertile lands and beautiful beaches. The main town and capital is Port Maria, a charming coastal settlement. Agriculture, especially banana and coconut farming, is important here.