Jamaica’s rich history and culture extend far beyond its stunning beaches and vibrant music scene. Stepping into a traditional Jamaican household is like taking a trip back in time, where resourceful residents utilised ingenious tools for everyday tasks. Here at Kareem’s Quest, we’re passionate about showcasing the authentic Jamaican experience, and that includes the unique items that once filled Jamaican homes.
The Bed
The elevated bed was a staple in many houses and according to one of our Facebook readers, Marj Higs – “EVERYTHING kept under there. The grip with the birth ‘cerfiticate’, land title, will, bank book. The next grip wid the ‘go-out’ clothes, doctor underwear. And the ‘emergency’ grip wid the nightgowns, towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, carbolic soap Razac lotion, couple big drawz, one slip, two bras just in case yuh affe admit a hospital. Lastly, there had to be space fe d grampikni weh wah sleep Unda d bed.”
Watch our video on Old Time Jamaican Items
Treasures Under Glass: The China Cabinet and Figurine Showcase
The pride and joy of many a Jamaican household, the china cabinet housed the family’s finest dinnerware. Gleaming plates, delicate saucers, and ornate cups were meticulously displayed behind glass doors, reserved for special occasions. And if yuh tink yuh bad, break one!
Alongside the china cabinet, the figurine cabinet held a place of honour. Filled with an array of decorative statues, like the porcelain dog and her three puppies, these cabinets, while beautiful, could be a cleaning nightmare! Each delicate figurine required individual attention to maintain its pristine condition.
From Pantry to Protection: The Breakfront and Doilies
The breakfront, a multi-shelved cabinet, served a more practical purpose. Often situated in the kitchen, it functioned as a versatile pantry, storing everything from dry goods to cooking utensils.
A touch of elegance graced many Jamaican homes in the form of doilies. These intricate crocheted or lace fabrics added a decorative flair, adorning tabletops and even covering the lemonade jar, keeping dust and pesky flies at bay.
Cooling Comfort and Creative Crafts: The Monkey Jar and Crochet
Jamaican ingenuity shines through in the monkey jar. Crafted from clay, this ingenious invention kept water refreshingly cool. We have Jamaican cultural icon, Louisa Ma’lou Jones, to thank for popularising this beautiful and practical piece of clay work.
Crochet, a skill passed down through generations, transcended mere utility. While still adorning sofas and table mats, crochet creations served a multitude of purposes, adding a touch of personal flair to Jamaican homes.
Essential Everyday Items: A Deeper Look
Enamel Cup: A staple in every Jamaican household, the enamel cup, with its signature coloured rim, was a trusty companion for countless cups of tea, coffee, or refreshing beverages.
Mortar and Pestle: This dynamic duo wasn’t just for show. The mortar and pestle were essential tools used for grinding and pounding various ingredients. From the rich and flavourful notes of chocolate to the aromatic pimento (allspice) and the zesty bite of garlic, the mortar and pestle played a crucial role in Jamaican cuisine.
Grip/Dulcemena: Long before the age of fancy suitcases, the grip, or dulcemena as it’s sometimes called, was the go-to travel companion. These sturdy cases ensured safe passage for clothes and belongings on journeys near and far.
A Convenient Necessity: The Chimmey
Life in a traditional Jamaican household wasn’t always glamorous. Before the widespread adoption of indoor plumbing, the chimmy, a chamber pot typically made from enamel, served a vital nighttime purpose. Kept conveniently by the bedside, it offered a more comfortable alternative to venturing outside to the pit latrine. The contents were then emptied into a pail each morning for disposal.
Shining Light and Refreshing Treats: Kerosene Oil Lamp and Ice Cream Bucket
Evenings were illuminated by the warm glow of the kerosene oil lamp, often adorned with the words “Home Sweet Home.” These lamps provided a comforting light source and a touch of homey charm.
For a delightful summertime treat, Jamaicans turned to the ice-cream bucket. This ingenious contraption required manual grinding of various ingredients, transforming them into a refreshing homemade ice cream.
From Grating to Washing: Essential Household Chores
Extracting every last bit of flavour from a coconut was no easy feat! The grater, a sturdy tool with sharp teeth, made light work of this task. Before the invention of blenders, the grater was a kitchen essential.
Laundry day involved a different kind of elbow grease. In the absence of washing machines, the trusty zinc wash pan and scrubbing board came into play. Filling the pan three times – once with soapy water, followed by two rinses – was the standard procedure. The rhythmic sound created by the scrubbing board on the washboard was a familiar soundtrack to laundry day in Jamaica and we can’t forget the ‘scrips’ sound with the hands.
Delving Deeper: A Look at Everyday Essentials
For a more in-depth exploration of these fascinating old-time Jamaican household items, head over to Kareem’s Quest YouTube channel! In our video, we delve deeper into the fascinating history and uses of these everyday essentials.
Create your own adventure
Craving your own Jamaican escape? Head over to our TOUR PAGE to connect with Kareem’s Quest! We can help you plan your itinerary, find the perfect hotels and adventures, and ensure you experience the authentic side of Jamaica.
Ask the lady about the breakfront and the whatnot. They were also pieces of furniture in the home. The breakfront was like a buffet but it was in the living room and it contained the alcoholic beverages, bar tools, mixers and whatever else you may need when serving drinks. The whatnot was a similar looking piece that was used for storing miscellaneous things like extra everyday glassware, dishes etc. Probably those were before that lady’s time. I was born in 1941 and I was raised in Lyndhurst Road and Cross Roads area. My father went to world War 2 and he died there. My mother was a pharmacist (Drugest in those days) and she owned Nelson’s Drugstore in Cross Roads from 1938 when Dr. Nelson died. She was one of, if not the first female pharmacists in Jamaica. She eventually sold the business to Levy Brothers Ltd. I was an only child and my father’s mother lived with us to take care of me because Mama did not want the maid to do so. I am now 83 years old and I still have a China cabinet, buffet and breakfast. I have lived in New Jersey since 1986 but I come home as often as my children will allow me to. I still,maintain a Jamaican home and we eat Jamaican food 90% of the time. I love your show which I watch regularly and it always brings back childhood memories from the days before there were busses only cars, buggy and horse, and grammars. Love to all.
Wow this is beautiful. Your memory is sharp!