Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of one of Kingston's most iconic streets.
DUKE STREET
The Duke Street Refurbishing Project invites you to discover the hidden gems of this unique street. Be introduced to our Walking Street Museum which covers the lower part of Duke Street. Our Project Area lies between Harbour Street in the south and East Queen Street in the north. Learn more about this bustling thoroughfare, which dates back to the early 1700s and which today houses banks, government agencies, law offices and a variety of business services and retail shops.
LEARN ABOUT DUKE STREET
History
Duke Street was one of the original streets when the city of Kingston was founded at the turn of the 17th century.
Culture
Duke Street's history emerges from many cultures. Join the Duke Street Refurbishing Project in celebrating aspects of our culture and heritage.
ABOUT US
Discover the people behind the Duke Street Refurbishing Project and learn about our mission to preserve and promote the history and culture of Duke Street. Meet the team, our partners and funders that make this project possible.
WHY DUKE STREET?
Duke Street is one of the best known thoroughfares in Downtown Kingston. It dates back to the first plan of the city of Kingston which was founded after a disastrous 1692 earthquake destroyed the infamous city of Port Royal, across the harbour. In walking distance of the centre, Duke Street became a mecca for the legal and financial community and is still a prestigious business address.
In 2015, Duke Street showed signs of pernicious urban decay, almost deserted at night due to the lack of general security and adequate lighting. The stakeholders agreed that the refurbishing of Duke Street would help to stimulate the restoration and revitalization of the entire downtown area.
