Location
Early in the 20th century, Alfred Mitchell, a Connecticut businessman from Salem, travelled to Port Antonio with his wife Annie Tiffany, the heiress to the Tiffany empire. They bought land in Folly Point in 1905 and built an opulent residence after falling in love with the place. The palace featured 60 rooms, marble flooring, glass windows, and wooden doors, all constructed to resemble a Roman villa. The mansion also included outstanding contemporary amenities like running water, electric lights, and a steam-powered generator. The Mitchell family occupied the house until 1911, when 80-year-old Alfred Mitchell passed away. Annie Tiffany Mitchell sold the property and moved to the United States at the start of World War I.
Over time, the property was transferred hands and subsequently purchased by the Jamaican government. The mansion's roof fell in 1936 due to deterioration. The Folly Ruins, or the remnants of the Folly Mansion, are still visible today and retain some of their original splendour and beauty. The striped limestone remains of the ill-fated mansion is great for exploring and a picnic. If you do it is advised to go with a group.
Historical
, St. Andrew
, Clarendon
