Ministry of Tourism officials, led by portfolio minister Edmund Bartlett, say the town of Falmouth has just taken a giant leap into the future of tourism with the unveiling of the Jam-Iconic Experience on Foreshore Road last Friday (March 28).

The event, according to the ministry, marks the completion of the third instalment in the Jam-Iconic Experience project series after Negril and the Montego Bay airport roundabout.

Aimed at blending Jamaica’s rich history with modern tourism experiences, the initiative is spearheaded by the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo). The undertaking is the brainchild of a collaboration between local artisans, and architectural designers, led by a distinguished local sculptor and engineer Scheed Cole, whose inventiveness brought the structure to life.

“Falmouth has always had a special place in Jamaica’s story. Once one of the wealthiest towns on the island, it is no surprise that Falmouth continues to be a town of great cultural and historical significance. This project honours that legacy while looking ahead to a future where our tourism industry is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial to all,” said Minister Bartlett.

“This isn’t just a sign or a structure, it is indeed a gateway, a calling card, a statement that says Falmouth is ready”, remarked Dr. Shaun Jones, chairman of the Falmouth Destination Assurance Council. The unveiling also drew praise from local leaders who see this initiative as the beginning of a new chapter in Falmouth’s tourism development.

“Over the years, we have transformed into one of Jamaica’s most sought-after tourism destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. But beyond the numbers, what really sets us apart is our commitment to preserving and celebrating what makes Falmouth special, our story, as represented by the local experience today”, Falmouth Mayor Colin Gager remarked.

Falmouth has long been an integral part of Jamaica’s tourism fabric, from its Georgian architecture to its status as a bustling cruise ship port. With this unveiling, the town takes yet another step toward becoming a more interactive and community-driven tourism destination.

“We are the proud keepers of a cultural treasure chest from Falmouth’s Georgian grandeur to its distinction as the first town in this hemisphere with running water. These are not just stories of the past. They are building blocks for a vibrant future in tourism”, said Tova Hamilton, Member of Parliament for Trelawny Northern. 

The Jam-Iconic Experience creates an interactive space where locals and visitors can engage with Falmouth’s unique history, ensuring that tourism benefits every corner of the community.