Jacob's Ladder, Historic staircase in Jamestown, Saint Helena.
Jacob's Ladder is a historic concrete staircase with 699 steps in Jamestown, Saint Helena, rising along Ladder Hill. The structure connects Main Street with the remains of Ladder Hill Fort at the summit, climbing approximately 180 meters in height.
The structure was built in 1829 as part of a funicular railway system, with the steps initially running alongside cable cars that transported goods between Jamestown and the hilltop settlement. After the railway ceased operations, only the staircase remained as a link between the two levels.
The Museum of Saint Helena awards certificates to individuals who complete the climb, making it a recognized achievement for visitors to the island. This tradition underscores the importance of the staircase for the local community and draws travelers into the island's history.
Each step measures approximately 11 inches (28 cm) in height and width, creating a steep slope that requires physical effort to ascend. Visitors planning the climb should consider starting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid intense midday heat.
Local students developed a technique of sliding down the metal handrails to speed their journey from the upper settlement to schools in Jamestown. This informal transport method was passed down through generations and became part of daily life for young islanders.
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