Roseau, Saint George Parish, Dominica — Caribbean Region of the Americas (Lesser Antilles of the West Indies)
Old Market Square
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, March 1, 2026
1. Old Market Square Marker
The weather has damaged the marker.
The site of the old sweet water drinking fountain, located in the centre of the square. This was constructed in 1872, to celebrate piped water being brought to Roseau and was built on the site of a condemned well.
At the end of the first Maroon War in 1814, captured Maroons and slaves were executed in the square. On one particular day, there were so many executions that the well was never used again from the belief that it was defiled with the blood of these unfortunate people.
1700s
Boats were pulled ashore here for off loading.
It formed the centre of what is now known as the Old French Quarter.
It was the focal point for trade and commerce of the town, and all roads to and from Roseau were centered on the Market Square.
The sale of slaves, executions and public punishment were held in the cobbled area.
1810
Construction completed on the building which presently serves as the Tourist Information Office and Museum. It replaced a wooden market house built in 1765 and once served as a customs and town council office, town warden station and general post office.
1971
Due to overcrowding, the market was moved to the Roseau River
this page online
The Old Market is the hub for finding local art, crafts and other souvenirs in Roseau.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1872.
Location. 15° 17.791′ N, 61° 23.249′ W. Marker is in Roseau, Saint George Parish. It can be reached from Church Street just north of Victoria Street, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Touch for directions.
Regionally, it is one of the Lesser Antilles on the Caribbean Sea, on in the Atlantic Ocean, in North America, in the Western Hemisphere, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once a British colony.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Roseau Bayfront (within shouting distance of this marker); Glory to the French from Dominica (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); World Wars Memorial (about 90 meters away); Old Prison (about 120 meters away); Neg Mawon Emancipation Monument (about 150 meters away); Anglican Church (about 150 meters away); Methodist Church (about 180 meters
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, March 1, 2026
2. Old Market Square and Marker
The 1872 red drinking fountain can be seen to the far right.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 20, 2026. It was originally submitted on April 20, 2026, by J. Makali Bruton of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 15 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 20, 2026, by J. Makali Bruton of Washington, District of Columbia.
