Did you know that Diego Martin, a town west of Port of Spain, is named after a Spanish explorer? Let’s journey back in time and explore the story of this vibrant town.
Diego Martin is more than just a location. It is a place steeped in history. The town got its name from Don Diego Martín. He was a Spanish explorer who left his mark on this region.
In the 1780s French planters and their slaves settled here. They shaped the landscape of Diego Martin. This town nestled in the Northern Range transformed from valleys to a populated area.
Over time, Diego Martin grew into a cluster of communities. These include Congo Village and Diamond Vale. Also Green Hill, Patna Village, Petit Valley and others add to its rich tapestry. Each community has its own unique story. “Patna” reminds us of the Indo-Trinidadian laborers. “Congo” and “Sierra Leone” recall the free African laborers.
Around 1797, Diego Martin had a high population density. Twenty-six French families lived here. That equals 141 people. They cultivated sugar cane and coffee. By 1812, the population rose to 1,655.
Notably, St. Hilaire Begorrat played a key role. He was a big slave owner and member of the Council of Government. Legend says one of his slaves, Gros Jean, had a talent. He sang witty remarks that led to the art of Calypso.
The first church was in Begorrat’s house. Later in 1830 or 1831, a church was built. Father Vitaiis Tabaudo served as parish priest. He was also the “Protector of Slaves”.
The abolition of slavery in 1838 disrupted plantations. Estates like La Puerta and Green Hill faced labor crises. In 1849, Governor Lord Harris divided the island. Estate owners had to pay taxes. Many refused.
Interestingly, laborers settled in Green Hill and Reunion. This formed a village near Father Vitalis’ church. By 1881, Diego Martin Village had 764 residents.
In the 1860s, East Indian indentured workers arrived. They worked on estates like Diamond and Green Hill. Sugar eventually gave way to cocoa. By 1880, cocoa surpassed sugar in acreage.
As the 19th century turned to the 20th, Petit Valley gained prominence. Emmanuel Mzumbo Lazare, a leading agriculturist, lived here. His house was a hub of activity.
In 1941, the arrival of American soldiers in Chaguaramas changed Diego Martin. The population soared. New Yalta, developed by Averboukh, emerged. Diamond Estate became Diamond Vale in the 1960s.
Today, Diego Martin is very different. It evolved from its early days in the 1780s. The town’s story continues to unfold.