Katherine Campbell

Campbells in Jamaica
Campbell is the most common surname in Jamaica and it is said that there are more Campbells per square acre in Jamaica than in Scotland! It is thought that the first Campbell in Jamaica may have been Colonel John Campbell. He was born in Inverary in Argyllshire in 1673. He took part in the failed experiment to start a Scottish colony at Darien, Panama in 1698, but rather than return to Scotland he decided to settle in 1700 in Jamaica at Black River, St. Elizabeth. Eventually he set up a sugar plantation at Black River. He later encouraged his nephews to come out as planters to benefit from his initiatives.
When he died in 1740, he was buried in St Elizabeth and the inscription on his tomb reads as follows: “Here lies the Hon. John Campbell, born at Inverary, Argyllshire, North Britain, and descended of the Ancient family of Auchenbrock, when a youth he served several campaigns in Flanders. He went as Captain of the Troops sent to Darien and on his return to this Island, in 1700, he married the daughter of Col. Claiborne by whom he had several children. In 1718 he married Elizabeth, relict of Col. Gomes. He was for many years Member of the Assembly, Colonel and Custos of St Elizabeth. In 1722 he was made one of the Privy Council. He was the first Campbell who settled in this Island, and thro’ his extream generosity and assistance, many are now possessed of opulent fortunes. His temperance and great humanity have always been very remarkable. He died January 29, 1740. Aged 66 years. Universally lamented.” Notable Campbells who may be descended from him include the fashion model Naomi Campbell and sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown. http://www.flagupscotjam.uk/connection/

Naomi Campbell au festival de Cannes by Georges Biard & Veronica Campbell during 2011 World championships Athletics in Daegu by Erik van Leeuwen