Our Journey

Discover the rich history and evolution of Emancipation Park

1905 - 1958

Knutsford Park

The first race at Knutsford Park Racecourse was held in 1905 and the last in 1958, when horse racing was relocated to Caymanas Park. The racecourse was later bought by a conglomerate of business men who envisioned the site as a "city built within a city", hence the name New Kingston.

1958 - 2002

Dust Bowl

The destruction of Kingston by the devastating 1907 earthquake precipitated the need for a "new city Knutsford Park was transformed into the commercial business hub known as New Kingston Very few valuable properties remained untouched, including this prime land in the heart of the city commonly referred to as the "Dust Bowl"

May - July 2002

The Park Under Construction

The NHT Board of Directors together with the former Prime Minister, the Right Honourable PJ Patterson, visualized creating a park in the city where Jamaicans and visitors alike could relax and play. Architect Kamau Kambui, armed with detailed research of Jamaica's history chose to create the Park with an influence of Afro-centric designs.

July 31, 2002

Official Park Launch/Opening

The Parks opening signified the evolution of a "dust bowl into a national monument to pay tribute to our ancestors who fought for our freedom. It celebrates the resilience and strength of the Jamaican people who, out of the wasteland of slavery, have created a new nation which is respected throughout the world.

July 31, 2003

Unveiling of Redemption Song Statue

The controversial 11-foot bronze sculpture by Laura Facey, named after the Bob Marley song, was unveiled on the first anniversary of the Park's opening as a permanent monument to emancipation.

December 12, 2017

Unveiling of Outdoor Gym Equipment

Fitness equipment, donated by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), was officially handed over. This initiative supported the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport’s goal of promoting physical activity and a healthier society.

June 18, 2018

Unveiling of National Heroes Busts

Busts of all seven National Heroes (including Nanny, Garvey, Bogle, Gordon, Sharpe, Manley, and Bustamante) were unveiled by the Rotary Club of Kingston as part of a Jamaica 55 Legacy Project. The busts create a corridor of history within the Park.

July 31, 2022

20th Anniversary Celebration

Marking 20 years since the Park's official opening, this event celebrated two decades of the Park serving as a national symbol of freedom, culture, and community wellness.

2025 - Present

Ongoing Role as Cultural and Fitness Hub

Emancipation Park continues to serve as a central location for community events, national celebrations, and daily physical exercise for residents and visitors alike. The Park continues to evolve as we continue our "Freedom Journey”