ST JAMES, Jamaica— Catadupa residents are upbeat over the economic prospects to be derived from the recent launch of the Catadupa Heritage and Eco Tours by the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo).

The residents welcomed the opportunity to now peddle craft items to tourists who participate in tours in their community, which is said to have been the home of National Hero Samuel Sharpe.

According to Paulette Tomlinson, community members resorted to farming after rail services, which transported tourists to Appleton Estate in St Elizabeth via Catadupa, were shuttered in the early 1990s.

“I like this. This was here from in the 1990s when the tourist train used to pass by and then the people used to come off the train and come shopping. We would take their measurement to make clothing which they would collect on their way back. And what is not ready we took their names and take the items to their hotels. So it is a good feeling to know we have something like this coming back. It’s a good feeling,” she told Observer Online last week.

Charline Graham, who was among the several craft vendors who thronged Catadupa Square, was equally receptive.

“The whole experience of the tour coming back to Catadupa is a good feeling because it has been so many years since the train has stopped running and now we welcome back the tour with open arms. Thanks to all the persons who helped to put it back together because it was our source of living. For most people this is what they used to live off on a day-to-day basis until the train stopped running. We really appreciate them coming back with the tour,” Graham said.

The project, part of TPDCo’s Tourism Cluster Development Initiative, seeks to preserve the legacy of National Hero Samuel Sharpe and promotes the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Catadupa community.

The project, developed over two years with the support of TPDCo, has transformed the Catadupa Tourism Cluster into a tour company offering authentic community experiences.

During the recent launch, Homer Davis, Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for St James Southern underscored the magnitude of such initiatives in boosting local economies and providing unique experiences for tourists.

“The launch of this heritage tour could not happen at a better time, with the boom in tourism and the increasing demand for rural and heritage attractions. It’s not all about the hotels. To truly experience Jamaica and its culture, you have to visit areas like Catadupa,” Davis said.

Claudette Glegg, chairperson of the Catadupa Tourism Cluster, expressed her gratitude for the support received.

“We are immensely grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in this project. The transformation we have witnessed is truly remarkable, and we are excited to share our community’s heritage and natural beauty with visitors,” Glegg said.

The Catadupa Heritage and Eco Tours celebrates the area’s historical significance, including its connection to Samuel Sharpe, a national hero born in the Catadupa Mountains who played a pivotal role in what is known as the Sam Sharpe Rebellion of 1831-32. The tour promises breathtaking views, cultural performances, and great local food, creating a memorable experience for all.