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Red House (Kamana Court)
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Landmark
The Red House, also known as Kamana Court, is a historic timber building in Georgetown that is deeply intertwined with Guyana's political narrative. Built in the late 19th century, the structure is famous for its exterior cladding of red wallaba shingles, which gives the building its distinctive name and lively appearance. It served as the official residence for Dr. Cheddi Jagan, one of the nation's founding fathers and a former President of Guyana, during his tenure as Chief Minister in the early 1950s. The architecture is a classic example of colonial residential design, featuring wooden louvers and ornate fretwork characteristic of the period. Today, the building houses the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, which is dedicated to researching and preserving the legacy of this influential political figure. Visitors can explore documents, photographs, and personal memorabilia that chronicle Guyana's struggle for independence and social reform. The Red House stands as a monument to the ideals of social justice and national liberation in Guyanese history.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: Kingston Methodist Church · Red House · Walter Roth Museum
- Nearby: Pouderoyen (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 181 | 117 | 94 | 144 | 315 | 314 | 302 | 193 | 102 | 103 | 181 | 257 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Red House is a prominent landmark in Georgetown, housing the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre. Visitors can view the exterior freely, and the interior may be open during office hours.
Typical hours
The research centre typically operates on weekdays from about 8 AM to 4 PM, but it is advisable to call ahead. The building is closed on weekends and public holidays.
Photography
Photography of the striking red wooden facade is allowed from the outside. Inside, photography may be restricted, so ask for permission.
Time needed
A quick visit to admire the exterior takes 15 minutes. If the interior is open, allow an additional 20 to 30 minutes to see the exhibits.
Combine with
The Red House is within walking distance of other Georgetown attractions like St. George's Cathedral and the National Museum. A walking tour of the city's wooden architecture is highly recommended.
Getting there
The building is located on Main Street in central Georgetown, easily reachable by taxi or on foot. There is street parking, but it can be limited.
Insider tip
Check the opening hours in advance, as the research centre may have irregular hours. The outside looks best in the late afternoon light.
Geography
Facts
- The building was constructed toward the end of the 19th century.
- It owes its name to the characteristic red wallaba shingles on its facade.
- Dr. Cheddi Jagan lived here from 1953 to 1957 during his time as Chief Minister.
- The site is located on High Street in the Kingston district of Georgetown.
- Since 1999, it has housed the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre.
- The structure was built almost entirely using local Guyanese timber.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Red House (Kamana Court) (10)
Umana Yana
National Heritage Building.
African Liberation Monument
Monument commemorating African liberation.
community center
Community center for local activities.
Theater Guild
Theater group staging performances.
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church
Roman Catholic church in Georgetown.
Promenade Gardens
Urban park in Georgetown, Guyana.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the building called 'Red House'?
Due to its distinctive red exterior made of wallaba wooden shingles.
What does Red House house today?
It houses the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre.
Where is Red House located?
It is located on High Street in Kingston, Georgetown.
Who lived there formerly?
It once served as the residence for former Prime Minister Dr. Cheddi Jagan.
Can you visit the research centre?
Yes, it is open to the public and researchers, typically on weekdays.
Red House (Kamana Court): where is it located?
Red House (Kamana Court) is located in Guyana.
Red House (Kamana Court): what is there to see?
Highlights include Kingston Methodist Church, Red House, Walter Roth Museum.
Red House (Kamana Court): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Red House (Kamana Court): why is it worth visiting?
The Red House, also known as Kamana Court, is a historic timber building in Georgetown that is deeply intertwined with Guyana's political narrative.
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Operated by the Guyana National Shipping Corporation.
Red House
A historic 19th-century wooden building that formerly served as the residence of the Prime Minister.
State House
The official residence of the President of Guyana, a stately building constructed in 1858.
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A historical building in Georgetown that has served as the official residence of the Prime Minister since independence.
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