The Rubber Tree memorial in Warwick has been restored and the surrounding site cleaned up through the Ministry of Public Works and Environment’s Community Beautification Programme, helping to preserve the memory of generations of Black Bermudians.
Located opposite St. Mary’s Church and included on Bermuda’s African Diaspora Heritage Trail, the site was historically used as a burial ground for free and enslaved Black people. Historical accounts record that Black Bermudians established the burial ground at their own expense because they were not permitted to be interred in the churchyard used by white parishioners.
The site continued to be used after Emancipation. To date, 78 individuals buried there have been identified by name, with research continuing into others who may have been interred at the site.
The Hon. Jaché Adams, JP, MP, Minister of Public Works and Environment, said: “The Rubber Tree memorial represents an important part of Warwick’s history and Bermuda’s wider story. This is a place connected to generations of Black Bermudians whose lives, experiences and contributions deserve to be remembered and respected.
“Restoring the memorial is not simply about improving how it looks. It is about treating a place of historical and cultural significance with the dignity it deserves. This Government has a responsibility to ensure that the history of Black Bermudians receives the care and recognition it deserves, and that these stories remain visible to future generations.”
Over approximately two weeks, the Ministry carried out restoration and beautification works that included masonry repairs to the memorial, vegetation and branch clearance, power washing, removal of rubbish and debris, and other improvements to the surrounding area.
Neighbourhood residents also assisted with the clean-up, working alongside Ministry teams and a local contractor. The work was completed in advance of a memorial service held at the site on 13 September 2026.
Minister Adams said: “I thank our teams and the residents who contributed to this effort. Their involvement reflects the pride people take in their communities and what we can achieve by working together.
“The Community Beautification Programme is about responding to requests from our communities and turning them into visible improvements. This project is a good example of that approach. It addressed a practical need in the community while also helping to preserve a site with real historical significance.
“Alongside our major infrastructure projects, this Government is delivering smaller improvements that matter to residents. We will continue working with MPs, departments and residents to move these projects forward across Bermuda.
“I am pleased that the Rubber Tree memorial has received this attention. Our history deserves to be preserved, and our communities deserve to see their concerns followed by action.”
