Saint Elizabeth Parish

Saint Elizabeth Parish is an administrative division in southwestern Jamaica that encompasses mountains, plains, rivers, and coastal sections. The landscape varies from hillsides to flat areas with communities scattered throughout these different zones.

This parish was established in 1867 and named after Lady Elizabeth Modyford. Over time, portions were separated to create neighboring administrative divisions as the region developed.

Agriculture shapes daily life here, with banana and sugarcane farming visible across the land and woven into how people work and live. These farming practices connect residents to the soil and rhythm of the seasons.

The parish is accessible by direct routes from Kingston, with journeys offering views of mountains and coastal areas along the way. Roads connect the main communities, making it easy to move between different parts.

Black River, the capital town, received electric lighting in 1893, making it one of the first places in the Caribbean with this technology. This early infrastructure brought modern conveniences to a remote area ahead of many others.

Location: Cornwall County

Capital city: Black River

Shares border with: Westmoreland Parish, Saint James Parish, Trelawny Parish, Manchester Parish

GPS coordinates: 18.05000,-77.78333

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:25