Picture a bustling village nestled in the heart of Antigua. This is Piggotts a place steeped in history and brimming with life. Piggotts wasn’t always the vibrant community it is today. In the 1850s and 60s a school was built. It served the workers on nearby sugar estates like Carlisle Fitches Creek Weirs Gunthorpes Paynters and Cassada Gardens. This school was crucial for the education of the poorer residents. It was a central point easily accessible for everyone.
The name Piggotts itself has a fascinating origin. Around 1864 Richard Albert Louden Piggott moved here from St John’s City. He had a large family. His many children led to the area being nicknamed Piggotts Village. This family name permanently etched itself onto the landscape of Antigua.
Piggotts wasn’t just about families and education. It had a spirited rivalry with the nearby Osbourn Farm. Cricket matches between the two were legendary. A gap separated the villages. But this changed with the Happy Hill affordable housing project. Construction spanned the 1950s through the 1970s. It bridged the gap literally and figuratively. The rivalry slowly faded as the villages became more connected.
Today Piggotts is a diverse community. It is home to various religious institutions. This includes the Antigua & Barbuda International Islamic Society Masjid. The Masjid is one of the few mosques in the entire country. Several Christian churches also call Piggotts home. These include Praise Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church New Life Assembly of God Church of God 7th Day and Clare Hall Christian Union Church.
Piggotts is a remarkable place. It grew from a school serving sugar estate workers to a thriving community. The name reflects a family’s legacy. A once fierce rivalry transformed into peaceful coexistence. Piggotts is more than just a village. It’s a testament to Antigua’s rich history. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven from education religion and community spirit. It’s a place where history and life intertwine creating a unique and unforgettable experience. So take a moment to appreciate the story of Piggotts. It’s a story that continues to unfold right before your eyes.