Pembroke Parish

This article is about the parish in Bermuda. For the community in Wales, see Pembroke, Pembrokeshire.

Pembroke Parish is one of the nine parishes of Bermuda. It is named after English aristocrat William Herbert, 3rd Earl of Pembroke (1580–1630). Located in the central part of the island chain, it is home to Hamilton, the capital city of Bermuda, which functions as the administrative, commercial, and financial hub of the territory. This central location and the presence of the capital make Pembroke Parish a densely populated and economically vital area, differing significantly from the more rural parishes of Bermuda.

Pembroke Parish

The parish's economy is predominantly driven by international business, particularly reinsurance and financial services, which are largely concentrated in Hamilton. Tourism also plays a role, with various accommodations and attractions within the parish. Its geography is characterized by intricate coastlines and natural harbors, which have historically been crucial for maritime activities and continue to support its modern functions as a port and commercial center.

History

Pembroke Parish is one of Bermuda's original nine parishes, established early in the island's colonial history. Bermuda was settled by the English in 1609 when the ship Sea Venture, en route to Virginia, was shipwrecked on its reefs.^[1] The island was subsequently colonized and divided into parishes, named after investors of the Somers Isles Company. Pembroke Parish was named after William Herbert, 3rd Earl of Pembroke (1580–1630).^[2] The parish grew in importance with the establishment of Hamiton as the capital city in 1815.^[3]

Geography

Pembroke Parish is located in the central part of the main island of Bermuda. It is bordered by Devonshire Parish to the east and Paget Parish to the south. The parish has an intricate coastline along the Great Sound and Hamilton Harbour, offering natural shelter.^[1] The parish covers an area of approximately 4.5 km² (1.7 sq mi).^[4] The topography of Pembroke Parish is generally undulating, characterized by low hills and valleys. Like the rest of Bermuda, it is formed from limestone rock, which has been shaped by wind and water over millennia, creating a rugged coastline with numerous small bays and coves.^[1]

Demographics

Pembroke Parish is the most densely populated parish in Bermuda, largely due to being home to the capital city, Hamilton. As of the 2016 Census, the population of Pembroke Parish was 10,610 people. ^[5] The economy of Pembroke Parish is strongly influenced by the presence of Hamilton, the capital city, which is the hub of Bermuda's international business sector. International business, particularly reinsurance and financial services, is the largest contributor to Bermuda's GDP.^[6] Tourism also plays an important role in Pembroke's economy, with various hotels, guesthouses, and tourist attractions located within the parish and immediately surrounding areas. The parish also supports a range of retail, dining, and service industries that cater to both residents and visitors.^[6] The port facilities in Hamilton Harbour are crucial for trade and cruise ship arrivals, and local ferries.^[7][8]

Gallery

• 
  Mount Langton, the Government House of Bermuda from 1814 (when it moved from St. George's) to 1892, in 1857
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  Pitt's Bay, 1895
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  The original Trinity Church chapel-of-ease in 1879
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  A Church Parade by the Royal Navy and British Army in front of the incomplete cathedral, circa 1900