Black Rock Moravian Church, Tobago

Description

The Black Rock Moravian Church located in Black Rock, Tobago was built in 1858 by missionaries. Initially the Moravian missionaries arrived in Tobago in 1784. Missionaries were extended an invitation to Tobago by estate owner John Hamilton to minister to the enslaved population. Within Tobago there were some churches, however these solely accommodated planters and their families. The idea of ministering to the enslaved was not popularly practiced however, the missionaries pushed on amidst reluctance at the hands of the enslaved themselves.The Black Rock Moravian Church was built using wooden shingles, popularly used during this time as it was easily available. The church was used as a chapel school where it facilitated teaching of basic skills during the week, such as reading, writing, mathematics, and assumed religious services on the weekend. [1] “Moravian Church a Home for All.” Guardian.co.tt, 23 Apr. 2013, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOjWIkShGgM