Wesley, Dominica

Wesley, located in Saint Andrew Parish on Dominica’s Northeast, boasts a population of over 2,000 people. It is strategically positioned between Woodford Hill and Marigot, near Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM).

About the Village of Wesley

Wesley is a village on Dominica’s East Coast, embraced by Rough Bay, Walker’s Rest Bay, Marigot Bay, and Sophia Bay in the Atlantic Ocean. Within Wesley, you’ll find the North East Comprehensive School (NECS) and the North Eastern Funeral Association. The village is notable for its rich historical roots, cultural heritage, and fertile agricultural lands.

Wesley was known initially as Quarte de La Soie during the French occupation in the early 1700s. The area later became known as Eden Estate under British rule, owned by Joshua Powell and Thomas Hungerford Powell. In the mid-19th century, Charles Leatham, known as the “sugar king” of Dominica, owned the estate and played a significant role in its development. The estate was a centre for early evangelization by Wesleyan missionaries, which influenced the village’s name, either derived from the Methodist founder John Wesley or a local figure, Ma Wesley.

Cultural Influence

The cultural landscape of Wesley has been shaped by various influences, particularly from labourers from Antigua and Montserrat to work on the estates. These groups left a lasting impact on the village’s culture and traditions. By the 1860s, the settlement was called Wesleyville, eventually shortened to Wesley. The village has a strong Protestant heritage, although Roman Catholic influence grew later in the 19th century.​

Modern Developments

Wesley is undergoing significant changes with the construction of the Dominica International Airport, managed by the International Airport Development Company (IADC). This major infrastructure project will boost the island’s connectivity and economic growth. The project, financed under the Citizenship by Investment Programme, is expected to be completed by 2025 and will significantly enhance access to international markets and Dominica’s Tourism Industry.