The picturesque palms lined driveway to the park.

National Heroes Park is situated on lands formerly known as Kingston Race Course. The Lord Mayor and City Council of Kingston purchased the land in 1808. It was the centre for horse racing between 1816, when the first race was held, and 1953, when the spot was transferred to Knutsford Park. Other sporting activities that were popular in the site included cycle racing and football.

The park was the site of Emancipation celebrations on August 1, 1838, to mark the end of apprenticeship. Queen Victoria's golden and diamond jubilees were also held at the park in 1887 and 1897, respectively. In 1953, the park was renamed George the VI Memorial Park in honour of King George VI and the war memorial to honour those who died in both world wars was subsequently relocated to this site.

After Jamaica's independence in 1962, the Government decided to create a permanent place of honour for our national heroes. The park was renamed National Heroes Park and monuments were erected in honour of our seven national heroes in an area known as the Shrine. Adjoining the Shrine area to the north is a section reserved for the interment of former prime ministers and other individuals who have contributed to the political, educational and social development of our country.

The park is located at Heroes Circle, close to Allman Town and across the street from the ministries of Finance and the Public Service, Labour and Social Security and Education.

Photographer Norman Grindley reminded us of what our heroes did for us.

The park pays tribute to all those who gave their lives for freedom, including soldiers who fought in both World Wars.

In the shape of a star to represent the Black Star Liner, this is a monument to Marcus Garvey. - photos by Norman Grindley/Acting Photography Editor

A perspiring member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) in the sentry box.

Monuments to the first two prime ministers of independent Jamaica Alexander Bustamante (foreground) and Norman Manley (background).

Monument to National Hero Paul Bogle.

The abeng, representing Jamaica's only heroine, the mystical Nanny of the Maroons.