Toll Gate

History

 

In the heart of the island, along the main road between May Pen and Mandeville, is the small rural village of Toll Gate. The residents may tell you that not much happens in Toll Gate, and they are right – nowadays very little by the way of excitement passes their way. In the 1850s, however, the village enjoyed its proverbial fifteen minutes of fame when riots that were started there brought the small district to the attention of the whole island and the then government. The riots began when tollgates were erected along many major thoroughfares, preventing travellers from proceeding to their destinations until they paid a small fee. The tolls collected were, it is said, to fund road building and maintenance, but even that noble intention could not convince the electorate to pay the small fee. Eventually, Governor Eyre abolished the tollgate system, but the village along what is now the A2 retained the name from the tollgate that stood there.

 

Local Flavour

 

Today, Toll Gate is a major stop for truckers driving across the island, and home to a large community of cattle rearers and elderly farmers. The main income-generating activity in the area is farming, seconded by animal husbandry and cane cutting when in season. Generally, the citizens of Toll Gate do not see many tourists, but visitors are always welcome. And members of the community will be happy to talk about ol’ time Jamaica, politics or anything at all, over a game of dominoes in one of the shops along the main road.

 

Don't Miss

 

When in Toll Gate, do stop at Old Man’s Corner, the local hangout spot where old men can be seen passing their days with their friends. If you spend an afternoon there, you can hear some of the most fascinating stories about growing up in Jamaica, and about life in general. Walk over from Joney’s Restaurant where you can get humongous portions of cow foot and rice, cow head and yam, cow tail stew, cow cod soup or tripe and beans served hot and prepared to order.

 

Say Hello To:

 

Look out for “I”, a Rastafarian farmer who passes through town occasionally. “I” wears only a crocus bag (burlap) loincloth decorated with colourful threads, and is extremely outspoken about leading a holistic lifestyle. He is at one with nature. He also carries a small whip with him (to keep away evil) and will upon request demonstrate how he uses it.