All posts by: Jordan Smith

Royal Gazette: Conservation Group Target 10-Acre Property for Nature Reserve

An environmental coalition has today announced what they intend to become their fourth nature reserve – Alton Hill in Southampton.

Buy Back Bermuda – a collaboration between the Bermuda National Trust and the Bermuda Audubon Society – made the announcement as they formally opened the Eve’s Pond Nature Reserve after years of work to restore the Hamilton Parish property.

Jennifer Gray, chair of Buy Back Bermuda, said: “It is a magnificent 10-acre property at Alton Hill in Southampton that consists of woodland, arable fields and spectacular coastline.

“The purchase of this stunning piece of land was possible thanks to a major gift from a private anonymous donor and funds from our acquisition account including $300,000 donated by PartnerRe in 2008 for our next acquisition after Eve’s Pond.

“Later this year, we will be launching a campaign to raise money to turn the Alton Hill property into a publicly accessible nature reserve, and to maintain all four of the Buy Back Bermuda properties for the enjoyment of all.”

Alton Hill will become the fourth Buy Back Bermuda nature reserve after Somerset Long Bay East Nature Reserve which opened in 2007, the Vesey Nature Reserve in Southampton, which opened in 2013, and the new Eve’s Pond Nature Reserve.

Read full article online

Royal Gazette: Environmental Groups Issue Earth Day Challenge

Bermuda’s environmental charities will band together on Friday to celebrate Earth Day – and have urged the public to do their part for the environment.

Greenrock, Keep Bermuda Beautiful, the Bermuda National Trust and other groups said they will release a list of 13 different environmental actions that anyone can do on April 22 to help make a difference.

The charity has challenged the public to use reusable bags, collect trash, plant trees, go for a nature walk, use zero-emission vehicles like bicycles, reduce electricity consumption or go meatless.

Eugene Dean, chairman of Greenrock, said: “The Earth Day Challenge is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of age, to engage in some form of environmental action.”

He added: “I’m going to try to do all 13 of them, and I encourage everyone to do what they can.”

Other groups supporting the effort include the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, Beyond Plastics, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences and the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce.

Mr Dean said that Earth Day was launched in 1970 and is considered to be the start of the environmental movement.

He said: “Industrialisation and the smell of air pollution was linked to progress, and people had little knowledge of the harmful impact of polluted environments.

“Earth Day was responsible for raising awareness.”

Bernews: Nominations For BNT Annual Awards

After a two year hiatus, the Bermuda National Trust [BNT] will be presenting its annual Environment and Cultural Heritage Awards in 2022, and is inviting the public to submit nominations.

A spokesperson said, “The BNT Annual Awards, sponsored by Butterfield & Vallis, recognise individuals, organisations or groups which have worked for the benefit of Bermuda and its people, to preserve places of beauty, environmental significance or historical interest, buildings or artefacts, or animal and plant life, and to promote their appreciation.

“There are specific awards for School Programmes that focus on Bermuda’s natural and cultural heritage. Teachers, students and parents are encouraged to nominate their school for an award if they have a successful curricular or extra-curricular programme focused on one of these areas, such as a nature club, or have completed a project focused on appreciation of an aspect of Bermuda’s cultural heritage.

“Environment Awards are given to individuals or groups who have made contributions to enhancing and protecting Bermuda’s environment, while Preservation Awards are made to those who have enhanced or protected Bermuda’s man-made heritage, such as monuments, forts or historic buildings.

“The Outstanding Young Environmentalist award is presented to a young person [must be less than 26 years as of 31 December 2021] who has made an exceptional contribution to the preservation of Bermuda’s natural environment.

“Awareness Awards are presented for projects, programmes or initiatives that serve to inspire appreciation and stewardship of Bermuda’s unique natural, built and cultural heritage. For example, films, videos and books about Bermuda’s environment, history or culture would be considered in this category.

“Architecture Awards are given for new buildings or additions that show particular sensitivity to Bermuda’s traditional architecture or are appropriate restorations of old buildings.

“Both the owner/builder and architects can be nominated for these awards. If you are proud of the traditional home that you have built, or think that the addition/renovation that you have carried out upholds Bermuda’s architectural traditions, please send in your own nomination.

“Nominations must be submitted by 9 May and will be accepted in all categories for the period June 2020 to May 2022. Nomination forms can be downloaded from bnt.bm, or can be picked up at BNT’s office ‘Waterville’ at 2 Pomander Road.

“All nominations will be carefully researched and considered by BNT committees. The award presentation ceremony will take place on 16 June, 2022.”

Read article online

Palm Sunday Walk 2022

Thank you to everyone who participated to St. George’s this year for the Palm Sunday Walk! After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, it was fabulous to see so many walkers enjoying the walk.

As always, this event could not be possible without our volunteers who help in making the walk go smoothly, landowners and residents of properties who allow us to pass through, John Barritt & Son Ltd for supplying water and many more. We hope to see you all again next year!

The two participants who won this year’s door prize are as follows;

• Oliva Gaugain
• Elspeth Dunlop

View PSW 2022 images

Bernews: BNT Hosts Annual Palm Sunday Walk

After being on hiatus due to the pandemic, the Bermuda National Trust’s annual Palm Sunday Walk took place yesterday [April 10] with crowds of people taking part.

A spokesperson said, “The walk was in St George’s Parish this year. It started outside the former World Heritage Centre at Penno’s Wharf headed up Khyber Pass to the north shore and along to Ferry Reach and back. It took in many sites of natural and cultural interest including historic cemeteries and forts, Ferry Reach nature reserve including Lover’s Lake, and Stokes Point Nature Reserve.

“It was a wonderful afternoon, bright and very breezy. We had over a thousand walkers, with more than 900 pre-registered and more signing up on the day. The Trust is delighted that this long-standing tradition on Palm Sunday came back so successfully after two years. We are grateful that so many were willing to support the event and the work of the organization by registering for the first time. Thank you to everyone who came out! We are also especially pleased that the walk brought hundreds of people into St George’s to support the restaurants and shops – a much needed boost for the Old Town.”

View full article.

Royal Gazette: Hundreds turn out as annual Palm Sunday walk returns after Covid enforced break

Hundreds of people visited St George’s yesterday as the Bermuda National Trust’s annual Palm Sunday Walk returned to the East End.

While the walk was cancelled in both 2020 and 2021 because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, crowds got back in step today as they trekked from Penno’s Wharf to Ferry Reach and back.

The route, organised by Myles Darrell, the BNT’s head of natural heritage, brought participants past historic buildings, old military cemeteries and hidden beauty spots.

View full article.

Royal Gazette: Fears that Fairmont Southampton plan will ‘saturate property with villas’

A plan for “well over 300” units at the Fairmont Southampton was presented to environmental groups last year, a conservation charity said.

The Bermuda National Trust added that the scheme would “saturate the property with villas” if it went ahead.

Gencom said earlier that a level of residential development was needed to support investment at the iconic hotel, which it acquired in 2019.

A consultant for the company highlighted yesterday that the Government knows about the firm’s intention to propose an amendment to an existing Special Development Order.

But she did not confirm whether plans had changed since they were shown to environmental groups last May.

Karen Border, the BNT’s executive director, highlighted the 2009 SDO for the resort that gave planning permission in principle for 130 fractional tourism and residential units.

She said in a statement run as an Opinion article today: “Until a planning application has been submitted, we won’t know the full extent of the new proposal.

“However, the master plan discussed at a preliminary scoping meeting between Bermuda Environmental Consulting – on behalf of Gencom – and environmental NGOs in May 2021 showed well over 300 units planned.

“If this is still the plan, it seems very likely that a further SDO will be sought and granted allowing for this increased number, which will saturate the property with villas, and related driveways and car parks.

“Just the golf course – or part of the golf course – and a tiny amount of manicured garden around the hotel itself will be left undeveloped.”

Ms Border said that the BNT “absolutely understands the need to revive our tourism industry”.

Read full article

Bernews: Children Enjoy Nature Walk At Spittal Pond

Spittal Pond Nature Reserve was bustling with over 200 children, parents and camp leaders on the Bermuda National Trust’s Annual Children’s Nature Walk on Tuesday [April 5], sponsored by Arch Re.

A spokesperson said, “The 64-acre reserve is one of the Bermuda National Trust’s most spectacular open spaces held in trust for the Bermuda community. It is Bermuda’s largest bird sanctuary providing a diversity of habitats and an amazing variety of birds, especially during the migration seasons.

“It is also a very important cultural heritage site, with Portuguese Rock, the oldest evidence of humans on the island, and Jeffrey’s Cave, where an enslaved man was said to have hidden from his enslavers for several weeks.

“Groups of excited children, with their parents, grandparents or camp leaders, were guided by volunteers to several different stations in the reserve, where they learned about its different habitats and features from local scientists and educators.

Read full article.

Royal Gazette: The Annual Children’s Nature Walk

View images from the BNT Annual Children’s Nature Walk.

Built Heritage: Department of Fisheries Cottage

BUILT HERITAGE: March 2022 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Because of its recent use by the Department of Fisheries we’ve called this otherwise unnamed house Fisheries Cottage. Not only is the building’s early history unknown, there is also the discrepancy as to which parish it belongs, with one government department placing it in Hamilton Parish and another in St George’s.

Although the exact date of the cottage’s construction is uncertain it appears on the 1898/1901 ordinance survey map. The Grade 3 listed cottage has many decorative features such as raised gable ends, corner pilasters and a small parapet on the south end. An architrave over the front door helps to deflect rain water. There is a large tank built into hillside.

As early as 1620 there was a little footbridge which led from the main island to Coney Island where there was a horse ferry that went across to Ferry Island where then a short wooden bridge led to St George’s Island. Before the 1871 construction of the Causeway there was steady business transporting people, horses and carriages to Ferry Island. Located close to the Coney Island pier is the Old Ferry House (now also used by the Fisheries Department) which was rented out, presumably to the ferry master who was required to keep all the buildings in good repair and to paint them inside and out every year.

Read full built heritage article on Fisheries Cottage

Bernews: BNT To Host Spittal Pond Nature Walk On April 5

The Bermuda National Trust will host its Annual Children’s Nature Walk at Spittal Pond in Smith’s Parish on Tuesday, April 5.

A free event for families, teachers, students, and children aged five to 12 years old, will learn all about the diverse nature reserve.

Groups will leave the eastern parking lot every 15 minutes from 9.30 am, with the last walk departing at noon. The walk will last approximately 90 minutes.

To register, contact Anna Stevenson, the Bermuda National Trust Heritage Education Co-ordinator at anna.stevenson@bnt.bm or 236-6483 ext.217.

For more details visit here.

Visit online article.

Royal Gazette: National Trust Palm Sunday walk back after two-year absence

The Bermuda National Trust’s popular Palm Sunday Walk is back after two years on pause because of Covid-19.

On April 10, the five-mile walk sets out from Tiger Bay in St George’s.

Hundreds are expected to explore the World Heritage Site, setting out at 1.30pm, or 2.30pm at the latest.

Parking will be available at Tiger Bay but participants are encouraged to take the ferry from Hamilton if it is available.

The route is expected to take two-and-a-half hours.

Walkers will pass sites of national significance, old military cemeteries and secluded beauty spots as well as historic buildings and monuments.

The route was planned by Myles Darrell, the trust’s head of natural heritage.

He said: “This year we are asking participants to register and donate, to help the trust cover the cost of organising the walk and to support our year-round work protecting Bermuda’s natural and cultural heritage.”

Walkers can register online here or at the trust’s website.

Read full article 

Bernews: BNT Palm Sunday Walk Will Be Held in April

After a two-year hiatus, the Bermuda National Trust’s Palm Sunday Walk will be held in April of this year.

A spokesperson said, “This year’s Palm Sunday Walk is expected to draw hundreds of residents and visitors to explore the World Heritage Site in the East End on Sunday, 10 April 2022. The walk will start from Tiger Bay in St. George’s at 1:30pm, [latest start 2:30 pm].

“The route is about 5 miles and should take two to two-and-a-half hours to complete. Parking will be at Tiger Bay although participants are also encouraged to take the ferry from Hamilton, if available.

“As always, the route will take participants to places that the public does not regularly get to explore. A map will highlight points of cultural and natural interest in Bermuda’s World Heritage Site along the way. Walkers can enjoy breathtaking views, and will pass sites of national significance, old military cemeteries, secluded beauty spots and many historic buildings and monuments.

Read the full article.

Royal Gazette: End-to-End

The Convex End-to-End celebrated a return to normality at its launch for this year’s event last night.

Organisers gathered with sponsors at the Hamilton Princess Hotel to announce the 35th Annual Convex End-to-End would be held on May 7 after the event was blighted by two years of Covid-19 restrictions.

Mandy Shailer, the End-to-End safety officer, added that favourites such as cycling, paddleboarding and the Fun Walk would return.

She said: “We are good to go.”

Ms Shailer added an electric vehicle to lead the way when participants set off at 7am from St George would be a new feature this year.

Ashley Stockwell, the chief marketing officer of Convex Insurance, said the firm’s inaugural sponsorship of the massive charity event was “a marriage made in heaven”.

The three charities that will benefit from fundraising from the event are the Inter Agency Committee for Children, Families and the Community, Transitional Community Services and the Bermuda National Trust.

Read full article

Bernews: National Trust To ‘Reinterpret’ Heritage Sites

22 February, 2022

The Bermuda National Trust said they are “embarking on a long-term effort to reinterpret the heritage sites and collections under its care related to the enslavement, resistance and empowerment of Black Bermudians, other people of African descent and the local and global majority.”

“Telling more of Bermuda’s story and involving more of Bermuda in that process is critical to fulfilling the Trust’s heritage mission,” said Dr. Charlotte Andrews, BNT Head of Cultural Heritage.

BNT is participating in Re-imagining International Sites of Enslavement [RISE], a year-long programme jointly hosted by the International National Trusts Organisation [INTO] and the American National Trust for Historic Preservation. According to INTO, RISE is a ‘knowledge-sharing programme that brings together managers of sites around the Atlantic with a connection to the slave trade.’

Click here to read the full article 

Royal Gazette: BNT signs to be changed to better reflect grim history of enslavement

22 February, 2022

The way sites of significance in the island’s history of enslavement are presented is to be “reimagined”, the Bermuda National Trust has revealed.

The charity announced the move after it replaced the word “master” with “enslaver”, among other reinterpretations, on signs that set up to explain the importance of Jeffrey’s Cave at Spittal Pond in Smith’s.

Charlotte Andrews, the BNT’s head of cultural heritage, said it was “the first BNT site to be reinterpreted”.

She explained that the changes were decided after “concerns were expressed by the public about the original signage” and consultation with historians, tour operators and others. Other changes in interpretation will also occur in the future.

Dr Andrews said she had seen attempts made to scratch off the word “master” from the old sign.

Click here to read the full article

Press Release: Bermuda National Trust works with partners to reinterpret sites of enslavement

Bermuda National Trust (BNT) is embarking on a long-term effort to reinterpret the heritage sites and collections under its care related to the enslavement, resistance and empowerment of Black Bermudians, other people of African descent and the local and global majority.

“Telling more of Bermuda’s story and involving more of Bermuda in that process is critical to fulfilling the Trust’s heritage mission,” said Dr. Charlotte Andrews, BNT Head of Cultural Heritage.

BNT is participating in Re-imagining International Sites of Enslavement (RISE), a year-long programme jointly hosted by the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO) and the American National Trust for Historic Preservation. According to INTO, RISE is a ‘knowledge-sharing programme that brings together managers of sites around the Atlantic with a connection to the slave trade’.

Dr. Andrews shared, “Our RISE cohort is exchanging professional experiences and best practice. Sessions so far have focused on appropriate uses of language and marketing, and we’re exploring a variety of topics. Inspiration and knowledge shared by our African, European, North and South American, and Caribbean peers can be applied to Bermuda’s unique heritage and community. Critically, we are also forging relationships and working closely with local partners, particularly in the Black community.”

Dr. Andrews added, “This work is about treating heritage as an intangible process in which we make conscious choices to combat racism and support community healing, as opposed to perpetuating heritage as fixed, exclusive or traumatising. This involves being honest and open about where we are, and choices made in the past. By acknowledging the work to be done, and undone, we hope to contribute to the structural change needed and build trust with the community. The sites and collections entrusted to us are indeed ‘for everyone, forever’, and so we must more fully represent and engage those to whom they belong.”

Jeffrey’s Cave—an African Diaspora Heritage Trail and UNESCO Slave Route site at Spittal Pond Nature Reserve—is the first BNT site to be reinterpreted. Responding to concerns expressed by members of the public about the original signage, BNT further researched and revised the interpretation in collaboration with RISE and Bermuda partners, including local historians, curators and tour operators. Replacement signage is now in place and reinterpretation is also being considered for nearby Portuguese Rock, which is understood to be linked to the slave trade.

“Over time and with thoughtful heritage processes in place, BNT will also be reinterpreting and reimagining other major sites of enslavement, resistance and empowerment, including Verdmont Museum in Smith’s and Tucker House in St. George’s. Like heritage and its management, interpretation is an ongoing process that should involve community participation, reflect social change, and respond to collective needs,” said Dr. Andrews.

To learn more about the evolving interpretative plan for the Trust’s historic house museums and other heritage sites and collections please visit https://bnt.advdev.info/heritage/interpretation-awareness.

Built Heritage: Camden

BUILT HERITAGE: February 2022 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Although no premier has ever lived there, Camden in the Botanical Gardens has been the official residence of Bermuda’s premiers since 1979. It has instead been used occasionally for Government entertaining. The main house is surrounded by ancillary buildings which include a carriage house, stables and an arrowroot factory, the latter now the home of Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art. The whole complex is listed grade 1.

The core of the main house Camden is believed to date back to the early 1700s when it was owned by Colonel Francis Jones, one of the wealthiest property owners in Paget. The house and 50 acres remained in the Jones family until 1811 when it was sold to merchant William Durham who with his brother Josiah had offices in St Vincent where they prospered. Durham made major alterations and Camden as it now stands dates to his ownership. In 1822 after the financial collapse of his Bermuda business Durham was forced to sell ‘Camden Park’ with its 34½ acres. The sale advertised that “The house is built more substantially and on a better plan than most of the Houses of this Colony.”

The next owner was James Henry Tucker and began the long Tucker family ownership that lasted almost 150 years. Tucker was a Hamilton merchant, serving as mayor for 21 years and representing Paget in the House of Assembly. He was also a leader in agriculture, resulting in the production of arrowroot that became a lucrative export business for Bermuda. On his death in 1871, Camden was inherited by his son, Thomas Fowle Jauncey Tucker. Like his father, he served as a member of the House of Assembly and mayor of Hamilton and continued the production of arrowroot. The Tucker trade name was said to have been the guarantee in Britain and the United States that the arrowroot was of the best quality.

Click here to read the full Built Heritage article on Camden

Royal Gazette: New nature reserve to get official opening on Earth Day

8 February, 2022

A group set up to preserve and restore the island’s natural heritage is opening a new reserve to celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

Karen Border, the executive director of the Bermuda National Trust, which founded Buy Back Bermuda with the Audubon Society, said work to prepare the Hamilton Parish site had gone well.

She added: “The initial plantings are beginning to mature and a further seven palmettos were recently planted along the roadside.

“A bird hide has been constructed on the site, and we now have benches donated by the Garden Club of Bermuda.”

Click here to read the full article.

Winners of ‘My Bermuda’ art competition

The Bermuda National Trust is pleased to announce the winners of the student art competition “My Bermuda”, sponsored by SOMPO International.

In total, 172 entries were received from primary, middle, secondary and home schools across the island. Artwork was judged by representatives from the Bermuda National Trust, Sompo International and two local professional artists.

Click here to read the full press release!

Click here to view all entries!

Built Heritage: Walsingham Cottage

BUILT HERITAGE: January 2022 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Walsingham Cottage is located in Blue Hole Park. Until it was purchased by the Bermuda Government in 1992, the cottage was part of the Walsingham property which included a main house now known as Tom Moore’s Tavern. According to the late historian, Dr Henry Wilkinson, Walsingham was “scenically the most beautiful estate in the colony”.

The small farmer’s cottage is believed to date back to the early 1800s when the 48-acre Walsingham estate was owned by Perient Trott whose ancestor, also named Perient, was one of the original shareholders in the Somers Island Company and the largest landowner in Bermuda at the time of Richard Norwood’s 1662/3 survey.

Click here to read the full Built Heritage article on Walsingham Cottage

Royal Gazette: A once-splendid building in desperate need of restoration

07 January, 2022

Located on the corner of Cambridge and Somerset roads is the Independent Order of Odd Fellows’ Loyal Irresistible Lodge No 6587. Named after HMS Irresistible, then stationed in Bermuda, it is without a doubt the most elaborate of all the lodge buildings, best known today as Manchester Unity Hall.

Designed by John W Greig as a two-storey building, 56 feet x 29 feet x 14 feet on each floor with a side tower, the cornerstone was laid in April 1901. From start to finish the work was done on a voluntary basis by the Brethren of the Lodge and when completed was debt-free. The grand new hall was dedicated with much pomp and circumstance on May 30, 1902. Participating in the celebration were members of the other Friendly Societies who arrived from Hamilton and St George’s on the steamer Corona. The newspaper remarked that “the most important feature of the parade was the presence of the Juvenile Branches … It is to them the Odd Fellows must look to build up their Lodges in the future”.

Click here to read the full article.

Royal Gazette: Termite tent over BNT’s Waterville in bid to kill pests

07 January, 2022

The historic headquarters of the Bermuda National Trust was tented to deal with a termite infestation.

Karen Border, the BNT executive director, said the tent, put on by Bermuda Pest Control, over Waterville in Paget was expected to be completely removed today and that the building would fully reopen on Monday.

Ms Border added: “It’s a very old building and, like many old buildings, we need to tent it some times to preserve them.

“The next step is to move on to repainting the exterior – we have to do what we can to maintain these historic buildings and keep them in good order.”

Click here to read the full article.

Holiday Pop-Up Shop 2021

The Bermuda National Trust is operating a holiday pop-up shop at its headquarters at Waterville in Paget.

Held for the fifth year running, the shop on Pomander Road, across from Aberfeldy Nurseries, features a wide range of items made and designed by local vendors.

Each item is unique and created by locals, the BNT said, offering Bermuda-centric gifts, some of which are one-of-a-kind exclusive.

The pop-up shop is open daily from 10am to 4pm until Christmas Eve, when it will close at noon.

Click here to view the full article.

Built Heritage: St George’s Police Station

BUILT HERITAGE: December 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

The New Police Station Act of 1904 provided for the purchase of suitable sites for the building of new police stations in the parishes of Sandys and St George. The former was built in 1906 in what has been described as an Edwardian Style of colonial architecture. In 1910 St George’s Police Station Act authorised the Board of Works to purchase the lot on which stood the Main Guard House and Ordnance Reserve Store from the British military for £300.

Although built after the death of Edward VII, the Police Station was designed in Edwardian or British Imperial style as was the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital completed in the 1920s. All three buildings are thought to have been designed by the same Public Works Department architect or perhaps by the Colonial Surveyor himself. William Cardy Hallett is known to have designed Thorburn Hall in Warwick, the clock tower, colonnade and east tower additions to the Sessions House in Hamilton and his home Elevado in Pembroke.

Click here to read the full Built Heritage Article on St George’s Police Station

Bermuda National Trust changes backed by Senate

An organisational revamp of the Bermuda National Trust was backed by the Senate.

The legislation, which increased the number of people to be elected to the trust’s council to 13 and ended appointment to the council by entitlement, was passed unopposed by the Upper House.

The council can now run its affairs through the passing of by-laws and has been given the power to appoint its own auditor each year to review accounts.

Owen Darrell, the junior education minister, said: “The trust is an organisation that is critical to Bermuda’s sustainability and the preservation and the remembrance of our natural, built and cultural heritage.

“These changes would enable better governance and efficient administration for the trust.

“It would also provide the trust with more power and flexibility to run its own affairs.”

The opposition said it had no objections to the Bermuda National Trust Amendment Act 2021.

The BNT was founded in 1969 and looks after 277 acres of land and 82 properties.

Its portfolio includes historic houses, three museums, nature reserves, farmland and cemeteries.

The Senate also approved a fee rate for permission to live in Bermuda under an economic investment certificate.

A fee of $2,625 for the granting of ministerial permission to live on the island was set – the same price as a residential certificate under 1956 legislation.

The Government Fees Amendment and Validation Act 2021 was also supported by the Opposition.

Click here to view the full article.

Lest we forget: remembering Bermuda’s first civilian hospital

The Royal Gazette of October 21, 2021, posted an aerial view of a building on Happy Valley Road. The headline read, “Interest in disused building attracts interest from developers”. It was further described as the former Prison Service Headquarters.

Had a frontal view of this building been posted, many of our older generation would have immediately recognised it as the Cottage Hospital, Bermuda’s first civilian hospital.

Fortunately, the Bermuda National Trust researched this building for its Pembroke Architectural Heritage book which was published in 2017.

Read more…

2021 Raffle Winners

We are pleased to announce the winners of our 2021 Raffle.

Congratulations to our 2021 winners. Many thanks to everyone who supported us and helped make this year’s raffle possible!

Click HERE to view this years raffle winners

If you see your name and have not been contacted please reach out to Jordan Smith at jsmith@bnt.bm or call 236-6483 x 215.

Christmas Walkabout Canceled

After considerable thought, and consultation with our tenants and our Christmas Walkabout sponsor Butterfield Bank, the Bermuda National Trust has decided not to hold the event this year. The Walkabout is such a special event for us all that this decision has not been taken lightly, and we appreciate that it will come as a blow to many.

Our residential tenants are understandably not comfortable with opening their homes to visitors while the Covid virus is still active in the community. Although the numbers of active cases are dropping, the Trust feels it would be irresponsible to hold a large event, even if only outdoors, that might be a cause of a new spike in the community spread just before Christmas. At the same time, the ongoing roadworks in St George’s would have made the event additionally difficult to manage this year.

We are, however, hoping to hold a series of guided tours in the town on several evenings through December for groups of around 15 people. Please stay tuned for more details to come soon!

Amendments to BNT rules backed by MPs

Legislation to modernise the Bermuda National Trust was passed by MPs today with support from both sides of the House of Assembly.

Diallo Rabain, the education minister, launched the debate on the Bermuda National Trust Amendment Act.

He said the BNT looked after 277 acres of land and 82 properties, which included historic homes, nature reserves, farmland and cemeteries.

The Act allowed for an increased number of people to be elected to the BNT council, up to 13, and the removal of appointment to the council by entitlement.

The council will run its affairs through the passing of by-laws and has the power to appoint its own auditor each year to review its accounts.

Click to view full article.

Built Heritage: St George’s Parish Home, 18 Secretary Road

BUILT HERITAGE: November 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Sarah Davenport, the eldest daughter of prosperous St George’s merchant, John Davenport, died in 1873 and left the sum of £400 to the St George’s Parish Vestry for the purpose of establishing “an eligible and healthy home for parishioners in need”. The Poor House, as it was originally known, was built in 1881 in the former Government House Park and enjoyed sweeping views to the ocean. It replaced an earlier ‘poor house’ near Penno’s Wharf. As an aside, Sarah’s sister, Jane, was married to William Penno, the Deputy Military Storekeeper for the British garrison. It was he who built the wharf and two-storey warehouse that still bears his name.

Poor houses in the 19th century were intended to care for the ‘worthy poor’ of the parish and not newly-arrived impoverished strangers. This was especially necessary in St George’s which saw large numbers of followers or ‘groupies’ who accompanied arriving British regiments and often put a strain on local charities. Although her history is not known, Margaret Smith was one of those in need. Born in St George’s in 1837 Margaret resided at the Poor House for almost 40 years until her death at the age of 83 in 1920.

Read the full Built Heritage Article on St.Georges Parish Home

BNT Online Auction Fundraiser 2021

The Bermuda National Trust will hold a virtual auction fundraiser this month instead of its annual in-person event because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Furniture and artwork will come under the hammer at the Trust Treasures auction and bidders will be able to compete for ownership on the Handbid app until November 24.

Dorte Horsfield, the head of development and engagement at the BNT, said that the auction was a replacement for the usual Auction & Jumble Sale, which sells off donated items to raise money for the trust.

Read More.

Built Heritage: The Registry of the Supreme Court Building, Formerly Customs House Warehouse and Town Hall.

BUILT HERITAGE: October 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

The Customs House Warehouse and Town Hall was one of the first buildings erected in the newly-incorporated town of Hamilton. Located on the corner of the First Longitudinal and Fourth Cross streets (now Front and Court), it was completed by June 1794 and was the first of three public buildings. The two-storey building was designed for use as the Customs House Warehouse on the ground floor and the Town Hall on the upper level. On 8 January 1795 the first election was held for Hamilton’s mayor, aldermen and councillors. From 1815, when the capital was moved from St George’s, until 1821, when the Sessions House was built, the Town Hall was also used for meetings of the House of Assembly and Supreme Court. A few years later the Customs House section was altered when two large doors replaced the one small door so that bulky cargo could easily be brought in for inspection and storage. Around the same time a two-storey addition on the northwest side was built. This was later used to house the Hand Fire Engine and sleeping quarters for the Engine Keeper.

In 1841 the third public building now known as the Cabinet Building was completed and Customs moved into new quarters. They remained there until around 1850 when, for reasons unknown, they moved to warehouses further west on Front Street. The old Customs House premises became barracks for the 20^th Regiment and grocery stores.

Read the Full article on The Former Customs Warehouse and Town Hall

Solar panels raffle prize to help National Trust raise money

A raffle winner will save money on energy bills and help the environment.

The Bermuda National Trust and BE Solar has teamed up to offer a solar panel installation as the grand prize in the draw next month.

A woman who won the eight-panel system last year – and had two additional panels installed – found her Belco bills had halved.

Funds raised in the raffle help the BNT with its work to protect and promote the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

The installation, which was also provided by BE Solar in 2020, is designed to deliver an average of $97 a month in savings.

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Bermuda to become test bed for alternative energy technology

News that the island was to become a test bed for renewable energy sources has been welcomed by environmentalists.

Karen Border, the executive director for the Bermuda National Trust, said the Throne Speech announcement was “a worthy goal”.

But she added: “Bermuda may be an excellent place to test certain wind and sea-based systems.

“However, with our tiny landmass and fragile marine ecosystem, assessing the potential environmental impact of testing such technologies would have to be a key part of any legislation, along with provision for decommissioning and removal of unsuccessful test sites.

“We certainly don’t want Bermuda’s waters littered with the rusting remains of abandoned wind, current or tidal research sites.”

Ms Border was speaking after Rena Lalgie, the Governor, said last Friday that a new Bill designed to promote green energy would boost innovation and help to pave the way for cheaper electricity.

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BNT Art Competition Sponsored by Sompo International

Young artists can win cash prizes in an art competition held by the Bermuda National Trust.

The trust yesterday opened its doors to applications for their 2021 Student Art Competition, whose theme this year is “My Bermuda”.

Karen Border, the executive director of the BNT, said: “We are delighted to invite Bermuda’s young people to use their artistic skills to communicate what Bermuda means to them – whether that be aspects of the island’s natural heritage or cultural heritage, their own local connections, hopes for the island’s future, or whatever inspires them.”

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Garden club donates $10,000 to help Eve’s Pond restoration

The Garden Club of Bermuda gave the cheque to the Buy Back Bermuda (BBB) group to help them complete the restoration of Eve’s Pond in Hamilton Parish.

Jennifer Gray, the chairwoman of BBB, said: “We are incredibly grateful to be the recipient of a 100th anniversary gift from The Garden Club of Bermuda.

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Auction & Jumble Canceled

We are very disappointed to announce that our Auction & Jumble Sale, due to take place at the end of September, has been cancelled. We felt that we must do our part to prevent the potential further spread of the Delta variant through such a large in-person event and took the decision to cancel this morning. Shortly afterwards, we received notice from the Bermuda Government that our large group exemption has in fact been withdrawn.

This is a serious blow to our fundraising efforts, so we are now planning to set up a pop-up shop at Waterville. We have many beautiful items which were kindly donated to us over the past few months, and they need a new home. Stay tuned for more information on ‘treasures’ available at a pop-up shop at Waterville next week. Please note that we are still accepting donations for this shop.

We would very much appreciate your support!

Cultural Heritage Expert, Dr. Charlotte Andrews appointed to BNT role

A new post of head of cultural heritage will help boost the island’s appreciation of its past, a Bermuda National Trust spokeswoman said yesterday.

She was speaking as it was announced that Charlotte Andrews, the former executive director of the St George’s Foundation and a former curator of the National Museum of Bermuda, would fill the role.

Dr Andrews said: “It’s been my honour over the years to work with many people and organisations who protect, promote and create Bermuda’s heritage and culture.

“Now, I am thrilled to join the BNT team in this critical cultural heritage role for the island.”

Dr Andrews will manage the Trust’s museums and collection, lead programmes to celebrate Bermuda’s cultural heritage and help the BNT campaign for the preservation of the Island’s heritage.

She added that she looked forward to working with BNT volunteers and other organisations.

Dr Andrews said: “Bermuda’s cultural heritage is a living reflection of our connections, needs and dreams as a unique people part of a wider world, and so I am truly excited about the possibilities ahead.”

She earned a master’s degree and doctorate in heritage and museum studies at Cambridge University in the UK.

Dr Andrews was chairwoman the St George’s Unesco World Heritage Site management committee as the body reviewed its management plan.

Karen Border, the BNT’s executive director, said: “Dr Andrews brings an enormous amount of knowledge and experience to this key role.

“Her passion and enthusiasm for Bermuda’s heritage is very inspiring and we are delighted to have her join the BNT team.”

Click here to view the full article.

Built Heritage: Dubloon Hill Farm, formerly Brown’s Farm

BUILT HERITAGE: September 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Dubloon Cottage, as it’s now called, with roughly 12 acres was purchased by the Bermuda Government from the James estate around 1993 to enlarge what is today Hog Bay Park. The creation of the 32.23 acre park began in 1986 with the acquisition of the Freeland and Mayor estates. The three properties cost $7.925 million. The park consists of agricultural fields, woodlands, an ancient lime kiln and several abandoned cottages. The steep coastal hillside slopes down to the shoreline of Brown’s Bay.

The first recorded landowner was Sir John Heydon of the Sommer Islands Company with 140 acres in 1663. By 1789, Colonel Henry Tucker owned 75 acres which included his residence called The Hermitage located nearby. In 1852 the property was purchased by William Richard Outerbridge whose daughter Eliza had married Captain Richard Anderson of the 56^th Regiment of Foot. The Andersons sold 25 acres to farmer James Brown in 1871. It is believed he built the house shortly thereafter.

Read the full article on Dubloon Cottage

Built Heritage: Montpelier

Built Heritage: Montpelier

BUILT HERITAGE: August 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Montpelier is a listed building owned by the Bermuda Government. Built in the middle to late 1700s, Montpelier is perched on the hillside and once would have enjoyed a fine view of Hamilton Harbour. During the next century there were additions and alterations that surrounded the original T-shaped cottage.

The first owner of record is Bermudian Richard Jennings Peniston who, with his wife and first cousin Rebecca Jennings, took up residence when they returned from the Dutch island of St Eustatius in 1781 after it had been captured and looted by British Admiral George Rodney. The story goes that it was Rebecca’s idea to sew their gold into the upholstered seats of the cedar chairs and so were able to escape without their fortune being detected and seized by Rodney. Richard died in 1810 and Rebecca in 1816 and Montpelier was inherited by her nephews, the sons of her sister Mary, and eventually by Mary’s grandson, Richard Jennings Peniston Darrell.

Read the full article on Montpelier 

Government urged to act over state of historic home

The Government has been urged to take action to prevent a historic Devonshire home from falling into disrepair.

Montpelier, a listed building owned by the Bermuda Government, had been the official residence of the Deputy Governor.

But it has been empty since 2018 and the building has started to deteriorate.

The Bermuda National Trust said: “There have been comments that the police use the house for firearms practice and that the cottage is being used as a gang graffiti platform.

“Whether this is true or not, Montpelier today is in a sorry state due entirely to wilful neglect – so sad for a once-treasured family home.

“One wonders why, if the Bermuda Government no longer has a use for the house, it is not sold to someone who would restore and appreciate it.”

Montpelier was built in the mid to late 1700s and the building was originally a T-shaped cottage.

Click here to read the full article.

DEEP learning for interns at Deloitte

Since June, Deloitte Bermuda has welcomed 13 interns into their DEEP [Deloitte Exclusive Experience Program] Internship Program.

DEEP provides young Bermudians with the opportunity to develop new skills and gain hands-on experience in the financial services industry.

The program is available for students interested in Accounting, Actuarial Science, Financial Advisory, Risk Advisory, Technology, Tax, Talent and Marketing and runs each summer from June through August.

The DEEP internship provides a unique environment for students to learn from skilled professionals while gaining work experience at an internationally recognized company. Interns are connecting with like-minded young people who are passionate about kick-starting their careers.

https://www.royalgazette.com/international-business/business/article/20210721/deep-learning-for-interns-at-deloitte/

A Tribute to Pauline Powell

The Bermuda National Trust is deeply saddened by the death of Pauline Powell, who passed away on Sunday 11 July. Pauline worked at the Trust from 2002 to 2016, as the Executive Assistant. She is survived by her husband John and daughters Lynette and Andrea.

“Pauline was the smiling public face of Waterville for many years, and an absolute treasure to the Trust. She will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her,” said Karen Border, Executive Director.

Amanda Outerbridge, who was Executive Director at the Trust when Pauline first started working here, said: “This is incredibly sad news. Pauline contributed enormously to the Trust and she was wonderful to work with. Always professional and calm, with a great sense of humour, she provided vital support to the entire team, notably operationally with revenue collection, administration and fundraising events. She was particularly good with people – including members and volunteers. Pauline was devoted to the work of the Trust and passed this on to her family, including her husband John who was a valuable supporting volunteer. Condolences and warmest wishes to Pauline’s family and friends at this time of loss.”

Jennifer Gray, Executive Director from 2008 to 2016, said: “Pauline has taken with her a piece of my heart. Never was there a more loyal and dedicated member of the Trust family. From the day she welcomed me into Waterville and became my right hand, confidant, and indeed a good friend to the day we both took the next step together in our life’s journey, there was never a single second when her love for and commitment to the Trust and her family faltered. She was exceptional and by example instilled in the team the importance of a positive attitude, order in life and a respect for each other. With an open heart and ear for all, Pauline was understanding, nurturing, and loved by all. I always imagined she would spend so many more years tending her beloved garden and resting on the Trust bench she was so proud to receive when she retired. I now imagine her beloved John longing for her company in the empty garden with an empty bench, robbed of precious time with Pauline. My sincerest sympathy goes out to John and her children for their great loss. We have indeed lost a stylish angel in ballerina shoes who will always be remembered as a good friend and Bermuda National Trust treasure.”

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Trust in memory of Pauline:

Account Name:               Bermuda National Trust

Account Number:           HSBC 010 003259 001

Memo ref:                         IMO P Powell

Built Heritage: Former Parks Department Headquarters, Botanical Gardens

BUILT HERITAGE: July 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Surely, in the 21^st century, a solution can be found to the problem of old buildings affected by mould and mildew. Rather than simply abandoning and subsequently demolishing them, they should be revitalised and made useful again. A good example is the Parks Department headquarters in the Botanical Gardens – a Grade 3 Listed Building – formerly the Director of Agriculture’s residence.

Under the Public Garden Act 1896, ten acres in Paget East were purchased for the purpose of establishing and maintaining an experimental station to assist farmers in the development of agriculture and horticulture. Responsibility for its supervision and control was handed over to the Board of Agriculture and George Arthur Bishop, recommended by the Director of the Royal Gardens at Kew, arrived in May 1898 to take up his position as its first superintendent. A notice for tenders to build a cottage within the grounds had only been advertised a few weeks earlier so it is not surprising that Bishop and his family were obliged to live temporarily at nearby Seabright.

Click here to read the full article on the Parks Department Headquarters

Garden Club makes $10,000 donation to National Trust

Planning renovations at the historic home of Verdmont will benefit from enhancements thanks to a $10,000 donation from The Garden Club of Bermuda.

The donation was made to the Bermuda National Trust museum and gardens as part of the Garden Club’s 100th anniversary celebrations.

Karen Border, executive director for the BNT, described Verdmont as “a national treasure of Bermuda’s built heritage”.

She said: “Like all old buildings, it costs a lot to maintain and keep open for the enjoyment and education of Bermuda residents and visitors, so we are deeply appreciative of their support.

“On behalf of the Trust, I offer warm congratulations to the Garden Club on their 100th anniversary and look forward to continuing the excellent relationship between our two organisations.”

Jan Macdonald, president of The Garden Club of Bermuda, added: “We feel it is an extremely worthwhile project and we are delighted to support it with a gift of $10,000.”

https://www.royalgazette.com/environment/news/article/20210720/garden-club-makes-10000-donation-to-national-trust/?fbclid=IwAR3PLGwv3YQ1ju4QPcL4gCOu4VLgH4PHD3wfNc60YWpgWeuwBzcW4pbeGIc

US Coast Guard Cadets Volunteer at Bermuda National Trust

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Development must be balanced, says new National Trust leader

The new executive director of the Bermuda National Trust has called for a slowdown in land development proposals.

Karen Border said last week that she recognised that land development proposals were a way of stimulate the economy after the Covid-19 pandemic had brought the economy to a halt.

But the new head of the Island’s largest conservation charity added that, while she understood its value: “There must be a sustainable balance.”

Ms Border said: “We’re at the point now where there is so little open space left in Bermuda that we really can’t afford to sacrifice any more of that open space to development.”

She added: “I’m particularly concerned about the continuing pressure to build on the coastline despite the risks from sea level rise and increased hurricane activity due to climate change.

“Once you allow building right on the coastline the next thing you know you get is an application for building an ugly seawall or a retaining wall to protect that coastal development.

https://www.royalgazette.com/environment/news/article/20210720/development-must-be-balanced-says-new-national-trust-leader/

A legacy under threat

Built Heritage: Ocean View (Formerly East Camp)

BUILT HERITAGE: JUNE 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Tucked away off South Road in Warwick is an old farmhouse, one of the many properties that once belonged to Captain John Lightbourn. He lived at Fruitlands but maintained a residence and second family on Turks Island. In 1871 John’s son, Robert Lightbourn, by order of the Bermuda Defence Act 1865, sold the southern four acres of land bounding on the Atlantic Ocean to Her Majesty’s Secretary of State for War. In 1891 Robert’s heirs sold the farmhouse and remaining eight and one-half acres to planters Samuel and John Frederick Ingham and in 1897 the brothers sold to the Secretary of State for War.

By 1911 the property was being used by the Bermuda Volunteer Rifle Corps (BVRC) who would march from Fort Hamilton and pitch their tents for both their annual and musketry camps. Various branches of the British military, such as the Royal Marines from HMS Constance, would also use the camp for musketry practice. It became known as Warwick East Camp or simply East Camp to differentiate it from Warwick Main Camp which was located a little further to the west. The Bermuda Cadet Corps was established in 1922 and they too held their annual week-long camps at East Camp until 1926. Unfortunately, that summer many of the boys became sick. The next summer the Cadet Corps moved to Warwick Main Camp where there were permanent buildings, cooking facilities, good sanitation and a certain amount of shade, all of which were lacking at East Camp.

Click here to read the full article on Ocean View

Built Heritage: Somers Pride of India Lodge

BUILT HERITAGE: April 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Somers Pride of India Lodge No. 899 in St George’s was the first of the lodges established by the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows when it was founded on 10 May 1848 with schoolmaster John Gilbert Allen as secretary and later Grand Master. Alexandrina Lodge No. 1026 in Hamilton and Victoria and Albert No. 1027 in Somerset followed. By 1860 the three lodges had over 200 members.

In April 1850 the trustees of Somers Pride of India Lodge, all of whom were residents of St George’s, purchased land on Cut Road from mason Peter Tucker. It wasn’t until 14 January 1862 that, with much pomp and ceremony, the cornerstone was laid for their first hall. A gale in October 1870 blew down the upper walls of both sides of their not-yet-completed hall but did not discourage them. The Odd Fellows celebrated their 25^th anniversary in May 1873 with a service and procession to their new building where the foreman of the Building Committee, John Cornelius Bascome, gave the welcoming address.

The rapidly growing membership saw the need for a larger building and in 1903 a more prominent parcel of land was purchased. The Somers Pride of India Lodge Trustees Act 1909 allowed the trustees to sell their building on Cut Road and on 13 November 1913 at what was described as “one of the greatest ceremonies of its kind” the cornerstone was laid for their new lodge building on York Street and St George’s Avenue (now Wellington Street and Rose Hill). Work parties were held with bus loads of members from sister lodges across the Island arriving to help with the construction.

Click here to read the full article on Somers Pride of India Lodge

Built Heritage: Skittle Alley

BUILT HERITAGE: March 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Skittle Alley is a Grade 2 Listed Building yet very few of us know of its existence. It is located on a small island and is connected to the mainland by a footbridge leading from the former residence of the Captain-in-Charge, the most senior officer at the Dockyard. The captain’s residence, known as The Cottage, was built in 1827 for the Naval Storekeeper who in 1837 became the Dockyard Superintendent. When Joseph Balingall retired in 1857 this post was abolished and Captain Frederick Hutton became the first Captain-in-Charge of HM Dockyard.

Skittle Alley was built as the bowling alley for Captain John Moresby RN who arrived in April 1878. It was during Moresby’s tenure that the Sailors’ Home, now demolished, was built. It too would boast of a bowling alley. Although Captain Moresby spent only three years in Bermuda, that he was highly respected is clear from the fact that his name survives to this day with Moresby House, built in 1899 for the Officer-in-Charge of Works, and Moresby Plain, the naval recreation and parade ground, today used by the public for large events.

Click here to read the full article on Skittle Alley

Capital Improvements at Verdmont Museum

We are excited to announce that our capital project of improvements at Verdmont Museum has officially begun.

Click here to read the full Press Release

Built Heritage: The Former Cottage Hospital on Happy Valley Road

BUILT HERITAGE: March 2021 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Citing the steady increase in the population, the lack of accommodation for those with complicated diseases and needing surgical operations, Dr Eldon Harvey spearheaded a group of his fellow physicians and community leaders and in 1886 lobbied the Governor, Lt Gen Sir Thomas Lionel Gallwey, for a cottage hospital. At the time there only existed two Royal Navy hospitals and the so-called Lunatic Asylum in Devonshire.

Click here to read the full article on the Former Cottage Hospital

Built Heritage: Wantley

BUILT HERITAGE: December 7, 2020 By Linda Abend and Margie Lloyd, Bermuda National Trust

This post is part of a series of architectural articles by the Bermuda National Trust that highlight some of Bermuda’s endangered historic buildings. 

Wantley, located on Princess Street, has a rich social history and was built by prominent businessman Samuel David Robinson.  One of the founders of Berkeley Educational Society, Samuel David and five other men met in 1879 at his newly-built home to discuss the feasibility of establishing a school that would become the Berkeley Institute.  The Robinsons were influential family in the then Town of Hamilton.  Younger brother Joseph Henry Robinson built The Emporium on Front Street and lived at the elegant Finsbury on Court Street.

Click here to read the full article on Wantley

Wilkinson Quarry Objection

Click the link below to read more the objection regarding the proposed demolition of an unstable mound with a subterranean void in Wilkinson Quarry, Hamilton Parish.

Wilkinson Quarry Cave Objection 

Gladys Morrell table bought by Bermuda Historical Society

The Gladys Morrell table, a key symbol in the fight to get the vote for women in Bermuda, will go on public display tomorrow (Monday) after the Bermuda Historical Society successfully bid for the item at the Bermuda National Trust Auction on Saturday.

The table fetched $6,000 after Mrs Morrell’s family chose the annual Auction as the venue for its sale, along with other items which had belonged to the civil rights icon.

As an act of defiance against being denied their voting rights, the Bermuda Suffragettes refused to pay Parish Taxes which resulted in the seizure and subsequent auctioning of furniture belonging to the group. Remaining steadfast to their cause and refusing to back down, a band of suffragettes and their supporters attended these annual auctions where they bid on, won and returned seized items to their owners. In Gladys Morrell’s case, it was the same table every year until property owning women were granted the right to vote in 1944. That vote was a vital stage in the march to universal adult suffrage which was achieved 19 years later.

On Saturday at the Botanical Gardens, the Bermuda Historical Society was successful in bidding for the table and Society President Andrew Bermingham said it will go on display at the Society’s museum in Par-la-Ville Park on Queen Street tomorrow (Monday).

Mr Bermingham said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been able to acquire this item and I would like to thank the Bermuda National Museum for deferring this is to us as they were also interested in purchasing it.

He added: “This iconic piece will remain on public view for posterity as a reminder of the role Gladys Morrell plated in ensuring the right of women to vote. She is one of Bermuda’s national heroes and we hope people will come and see this this piece of more modern history. The table was very old and valuable in its own right but it also has huge historic value.

“Having served on the Bermuda Police in the mid-1960s, I did know Sgt George Down who was one of the Somerset policeman who would have been at the auctions in the 1930s. So for me personally it is a tremendous asset of the museum and we are delighted to have it for posterity.”

The family and the National Trust had specified that the table could only be sold to a local buyer so that it would not leave the Island.

Said Trust Executive Director Bill Zuill: “We are very pleased that our friends at the Bermuda Historical Society were successful in bidding for the table, and for a tea set that belonged to Mrs Morrell and are thrilled that the table will now be used in telling story of women’s suffrage in Bermuda.

“The 30-year struggle to get the vote for women was an important stage on Bermuda’s march to universal adult suffrage and civil rights for all, regardless of race or gender and we hope that this will illuminate this vital part of our history and the continued efforts to ensure all people enjoy human rights.”

In addition, an 18^th Century cedar chest which had been in Mrs Morrell’s family for generations – along with the table – was sold for $6,500 to a descendant of the Gilbert family, for whom it was originally made.

Some 300 items were auctioned at the BNT sale along with thousands of other goods at the Trust’s annual jumble sale held on Thursday and Friday.

“The Trust is very fortunate to have a dedicated team of more than 50 volunteers who come together every year to make this event an extraordinary success, which not only raises money for the Trust but brings people together from all walks of life,” Mr Zuill said.  “We want to thank everyone who volunteered, donated and bought items at the event, which we call Bermuda’s biggest recycling event!”

The BNT Launches Earth Day Student Video Contest

The Bermuda National Trust looks forward to celebrating Earth Day on April 22^nd with a new collection of videos about Bermuda’s precious environment made by Bermuda’s own students. Inspired by the Bermuda National Trust challenge,  students will have brainstormed, researched, interviewed, filmed and presented their  views on the environmental impact of our actions and  will have put forward recommendations for a greener lifestyle.

The Bermuda National Trust, along with our sponsor Marshall, Diel and Myers, encourages our youth to put modern technologies into play as they create environmental videos expressing their concerns for today and their vision for tomorrow.

We are inviting all students to participate in this year’s Earth Day Student Video Competition.  They are encouraged to showcase their creativity, innovation and commitment to our natural and cultural heritage as well as to the future of the planet.  Students can work individually, as a group or as part of a science/technology class, to create a two to four minute video.  The video should relate to one of the following themes: ‘Remarkable Trees’, ‘Local Food, ‘What Does Earth Day Mean to You?’, ‘Getting Out Into Nature or ‘The Ocean Around Us’.

Here are a few ideas which might help students to choose a topic for their video:
Remarkable Trees

Bermuda has many magnificent trees growing along road sides, in parks and on residential properties. Search for these trees and research their names and botanical characteristics. Ask questions such as: Where did they come from and why are they important for the Island, its people, animals and plants? What is the value of our trees?

Local Food

Today we have more imported and locally produced food choices than ever before. Research the food produced in Bermuda. You might want to interview friends and family about their food shopping and cooking. Is local food more expensive than imported food? How are the local farmers and fishermen doing economically in Bermuda? What are the traditional dishes of Bermuda? Why is it more environmentally friendly to eat locally produced food?

Getting Out Into Nature

Go for a walk or hike and record Bermuda‘s beautiful landscapes, plant and animal life. How do you feel when you spend time in nature, when you go for a walk and switch off from mobile devices? Think about how people are connecting the great outdoors? What are your favourite places in Bermuda and why?

The Ocean Around Us

Bermuda is surrounded by the Sargasso Sea. Research the importance of it and its floating Sargassum Seaweed Community. You may want to interview a Marine Biologist and get his/her view too and discuss ways to clean and protect our oceans. Another topic could focus on the value of Bermuda’s reefs or the plastic debris that is pollution the oceans.

If you are interested please contact the Bermuda National Trust by e-mail education@bnt.bm and browse www.bnt.bm/education to view videos submitted in previous years.  Registration ideas for videos and guidelines are also listed on the webpage.

The deadline for registration is extended to February 24^th and the deadline for submittal is April 7^th (education@bnt.bm).

Submitted videos will be screened at a mini film festival day before Earth Day (April 21st, 2017), and will be featured through the Bermuda National Trust’s website and on local television.

We encourage our youth to participate and Bermuda to listen to the voices of tomorrow, the future environmental stewards of our island home.

For more information, contact Dr Dorte Horsfield at 236-6483 or email dhorsfield@bnt.bm

Celebrating the Life of Trust Supporter Andrew Trimingham

The Bermuda National Trust offers its condolences to the family and friends of Andrew Trimingham, who passed away in Devon, England on Friday at the age of 82.

Andrew Trimingham was a great supporter and powerful advocate for the National Trust from the time of his return to Bermuda in the 1970s until his death. He was a long-time Council member and President of the Trust from 1985 to 1987. He was also one of a number of Trust members in the 1970s who helped to found the Bermuda Maritime Museum in 1975 and remained a supporter of the Trust’s sister organisation – now the Bermuda National Museum – throughout his life.

Andrew Trimingham’s expertise on Bermuda architecture was invaluable in the evolution of the Old House survey which was driven by his life companion John Adams, the former Government Archivist. The Old House Survey led to the development of the listing system for Bermuda’s old houses, and Andrew Trimingham was chairman of the Historic Buildings Advisory Committee. The Survey also formed the basis for the National Trust’s hugely successful Architectural Heritage Series, and Andrew Trimingham was the author of the first in the series, “Devonshire” and contributed to the second and third volumes on St George’s and Sandy’s.

Andrew Trimingham left Bermuda after his retirement and settled in Devon with his friend and life companion, former Bermuda Government Archivist John Adams. He died there on Friday, shortly after celebrating his 82nd birthday in December.

Friends of Andrew Trimingham will remember that he was a passionate advocate of Bermuda’s built heritage and natural environment. He believed that Bermuda’s organically developed style of architecture, Bermuda-made artefacts and open spaces were what made Bermuda unique and attractive to others and was determined to help to preserve them for future generations.

Protecting the Bermuda Skink

December 6, 2016 – The Bermuda Audubon Society and the Bermuda National Trust have condemned the recent practice of prising rocks from the natural formations and piling them into rock-life formations.

The practice, which has occurred on several occasions in Spittal Pond, is disturbing some of the few remaining habitats for the Bermuda Skink, which is considered to be critically endangered and is protected under the Bermuda Protected Species Act 2003.

Apart from disturbing the habitats of endangered species, prising up and moving rocks can also cause erosion and can disturb plants and ferns.

Audubon Society president Mr Andrew Dobson said: “While we understand that the creation of these rock formations or cairns is sometimes considered to be art, people may not be aware that interfering with nature in this way can have catastrophic effects on other species and can cause major disturbances to the natural environment.”

Bermuda National Trust President Lt Col William White added: “Thousands of people every year enjoy Bermuda’s parks, nature reserves and open spaces, but users need to respect the safety of the species which rely on these areas for their very survival.”

Lt Col White added: “The saying ‘Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints”, is appropriate here. Nature takes thousands of years to evolve and we must take enormous care not to disturb that evolution while we enjoy these areas.”

Parks around the world are dealing with similar problems. The US National Parks Service recently launched an effort in the Southwest states of discouraging cairn-building.

The Audubon Society and the Trust are urging people to desist from this practice, Anyone with information, or who is interested in learning more about the problem, can contact info@audubon.bm or palmetto@bnt.bm

William Sears Zuill M.B.E. Director Emeritus of the Bermuda National Trust

William Sears Zuill M.B.E.

Director Emeritus of the Bermuda National Trust

Director 1972 to 1990

The Bermuda National Trust laments the passing of William Sears Zuill MBE. William Zuill was the first Director and first full time employee of the Bermuda National Trust, and served in this capacity for 18 years until his retirement in December 1990. As such, he was an integral part of the history of the Trust since its inception in 1970.

The Historical Monuments Trust was established in 1937 to safeguard Bermuda’s heritage through ownership of historically important houses and open space. William Zuill contributed to the work of the Historical Monuments Trust alongside his father and others prior to 1970.  He was instrumental in implementing the complex handover of Historical Monuments Trust properties and collections to the newly formed Bermuda National Trust. He also was integral to the rapid increase in the membership and community respect for the new organization, and its acquisition of additional properties and collections to preserve more of our natural and built heritage. I quote from the Bermuda National Trust Newsletter of January 1991 “During his tenure the Trust has grown from guardians of 12 properties and two open spaces to trustees of 60 properties of all sizes and descriptions. This increase of incredible proportions has all taken place under Mr Zuill’s dedicated guidance.“

The Christmas Walkabout was his idea in 1978. It was originally a Christmas party for Trust members with events in each of the major St George’s properties held by the Trust to engage the membership in our historic properties. The Children’s Nature Walk was also created to do the same in places of natural beauty, and the Palm Sunday Walk, started in 1974, introduced members to parts of Bermuda they could not normally reach. These annual events are now attracting so many Bermudians they are truly national events, and have far surpassed their humble origins.

William Zuill was an accomplished author, and many of his works form part of the educational publications of the Bermuda National Trust.  He contributed to the first publication of “Held in Trust” and wrote and paid for the production of “Footsteps in the Sand” to provide historical content as a companion to the 400th Anniversary of the beginning of human habitation in Bermuda. His “The Story of Bermuda and her People” is now in its third edition and his latest publication, “The Pirate Menace”, was the subject of a very entertaining talk he gave only last year at Verdmont as part of the Bermuda National Trust series of museum chats.

In addition to his work with the Bermuda National Trust, William Zuill was also very active in the development of the National Trust movement around the world. He chaired the committee responsible for hosting the fifth International Conference of National Trusts in Bermuda in 1989 which was attended by 53 delegates attending from 23 Countries. This conference was one of the many activities organized as part of the Bermuda National Trust’s 20th Anniversary. His leadership and advocacy within the international arena resulted in William Zuill becoming a founding member of the International National Trust Organisation. INTO has grown so that today it has a membership of almost 70 National Trusts from around the world.

On behalf of Bermuda National Trust members, staff and Council, past and present, I thank William Sears Zuill for his invaluable contribution to the work of the Trust, and quote again from that newsletter of 1991 “An era has ended, of that there is no doubt. And we look back with gratitude and thanksgiving, for William S. Zuill was the right man in the right place at the right time.”

Lt Col William K White

Council President, Bermuda National Trust

Bermuda National Trust response to the Throne Speech

The Bermuda National Trust welcomed the fact that Bermuda’s environment and heritage received attention in the Government’s Throne Speech on the 7th of November.

The Trust noted with interest plans to facilitate the growth of “the beach economy”.

“We hope that environmental advocates will be involved in consultations to ensure that maintaining Bermuda’s reputation for having pristine beaches is balanced against the need for growth in tourism,” said Trust President Lt Col William White.

Lt Col White also welcomed the development of a National Heritage Policy.

“As the primary advocate for Bermuda’s built heritage and as the custodian of perhaps Bermuda’s largest collection of artifacts, we look forward to consultations on this vital initiative and support all efforts which help to build a greater understanding of our collective heritage,” he said.

On the environment, the National Trust supported a Green Paper to reduce the use of plastics on the Island and further initiatives to reduce invasive species like Lionfish, and also backed efforts to reduce illegal fishing around Bermuda.

The Trust also welcomed plans to remove the eyesore of the former Devon Springs Recycling Plant and to replace it with a playground and hopes that this will be expedited.

Bermuda National Trust Welcomes Bermuda Olympic Association Monument Decision

September 29, 2016 – The Bermuda National Trust today commended The Bermuda Olympic Association (BOA) on its decision to drop plans to install the Olympic Wall on the grounds of City Hall on a temporary basis and instead to place it in its permanent location at the National Sports Centre immediately.

The Trust had concerns about the placement of the Wall at City Hall but chose not to object on the basis that the location was a temporary one.

However, the Trust welcomed the BOA’s announcement, saying that the NSC was the most appropriate location for the Wall as the NSC served the whole of Bermuda and City Hall should be reserved for monuments dedicated to Hamilton. The Trust had also been concerned that the monument was to be located in the direct sightline of the Grade 1-listed City Hall and would obscure the view of the historic landmark.

Said Trust President William White: “We agree with the BOA that the site at Roberts Avenue is the most appropriate location for a monument to sporting achievement and will serve as an inspiration to the many sportsmen and women, spectators and young people who use the NSC’s facilities on a regular basis.

“We do not know all of the factors that went into the BOA’s decision, but the effect of the decision is the right one from an aesthetic and cultural standpoint and we commend the BOA and the National Sports Centre Trustees for this decision.”

2016 Bermuda National Trust Awards

We celebrated the incredible work of a number of individuals and organisations at our Annual Awards ceremony held at Elbow Beach Hotel on the 23rd of June, 2016.

The packed hall saw certificates and trophies presented by his Excellency the Governor George Fergusson, Minister of Environment Cole Simons and Leah Scott, representing the Ministry of Education.

The Trust has been presenting the awards annually for four decades to individuals, organisations, groups and schools who have worked for the benefit of Bermuda and its people, to preserve places of beauty or historical interest, buildings, artefacts, lands and animal and plant life, and to promote their appreciation.

Awards List

Education and Young Environmentalist awards

Education School Programmes Certificates: Lyceum Preschool for transforming an uninspiring concrete deck into an exciting outdoor classroom.

Wee Environmentalist Award: Southampton Preschool for the survey ‘TAG — you’re it!’ on recycling habits at the west-end primary schools.

The Education School Programmes Certificates: Somersfield Academy for their water bottle and drinking fountain initiative.

The Michael Darling Shield: Saltus Grammar School for The Saltus Island project.

Young Environmentalist awards

• JP Didyk for his passion for a healthy environment and for creating ‘Clean Habitats’

• Kairo Morton and Yassine Chentouf for creating an APP to identify and record ghost nets in the ocean

• Magnus Henneberger for his work as a youth Ambassador for Plastic Tides

Awareness Awards

• Ag Show Ltd for organising the return of the Bermuda Agricultural Exhibition

• Hidden Gems of Bermuda Ltd. for the popular and successful eco-tourism company

• Bacardi International for the sustainable initiative that provides employees bicycles to travel around Hamilton

The Deforest Trimingham Award: gassProductions for the Ocean Vet Series

Awareness and Environment Awards

• Groundswell for the popular annual Lionfish Tournament

• Bermuda Audubon Society and Deloitte for the Seymour’s Pond Nature Trail

• Bermuda Zoological Society for the Trunk Island restoration project

• Natasha Butterfield for cleaning up and maintaining the former Railway building and trail off Camp Hill in Warwick

The Patsy Phillips Bermudiana Award: Gertrude Gierlinger for 30 years of Bluebird rehabilitation

Preservation and Architecture Awards

Architecture Award: Germano Botelho — BotelhoWood Architects for the sensitive renovation of Elm Lodge Cottage, Harbour Road, Warwick

Preservation Awards

• Joy Rothwell and David Fox for the attractive restoration of the exterior of 13 Water Street in the Town of St. George’s

• Ministry of Public Works, Horsfield Landscape and Design Ltd. For building the Bermuda stone wall in the traditional style at the bus stop at the junction of Chapel Road and Middle Road, Paget

• BCM McAlpine — carpenters Hans Bruun, Kenneth Burch and Emanuel DeMelo for outstanding carpentry work on Springfield’s Verandah

• Wedco for restoring the windows of Building No. 9 Dockyard

The Clipper Award: Richard Lowry for commitment to the island’s built heritage and contributions to the Bermuda National Trust

Trust Honours

Staff Long Service Awards are awarded to acknowledge outstanding commitment to the Bermuda National Trust

5 yrs + Vincent Chaves, Donella Perinchief, Duane Symonds, Jackie Robinson

10 yrs + Randy Denbrook

25 yrs + Saleem Madyun

Service Awards are awarded to acknowledge outstanding voluntary service and support to the Bermuda National Trust:

• Connie Dey for her outstanding voluntary commitment to the Trust

• Steve Woodward for managing the Bermuda National Trust audit for 10 years

President’s Award

Awarded by the president of the Bermuda National Trust for a service, gift or contribution supporting the mission of the Trust: • The Estate of Jean Cox Spence for donating the historic house Devondale and its 10 acres of woodland and farmland to the Bermuda National Trust

The Palmetto Award is the National Trust’s highest annual honour and is awarded for outstanding service to the community in areas of concern to the Trust or service to the Trust itself

• Diana Chudleigh for enduring commitment and service to the Trust over many years and most recently, the Tucker House guide book and garden redesign

Buy Back Bermuda Round 2

Three years have gone by since we launched our first campaign, and we feel that we have enough energy and sufficient public support to save more green space from development. The Bermuda National Trust and The Bermuda Audubon Society invite you to help purchase and safeguard precious open space.

Our target this time is $2.5 million and we have identified two valuable properties – the first in Southampton, 7.6 acres next to Evans Bay Pond, and the second, 3.36 acres in Hamilton Parish, near Shelly Bay – almost 11 acres in total.

Your actions will result in ‘saving some open green space’ for current and future generations to enjoy. We hope that all concerned residents, young and old, local and international companies and even visitors, will help us with this, our Second Campaign, by making a financial contribution to this cause – regardless of how small the amount.

Please read our Brochure and complete the attached form and return it to us with your donation. All contributors will have their names recorded for prosperity on a monument to be constructed on the sites for all to see. The Committee and especially future generations of residents of Bermuda will be indebted to you for your foresight and generosity.

Bermuda Slave Registers from 1821 and 1834

The Ombudsman for Bermuda, Arlene Brock, has made available two extensive databases made from the 1821 and 1834 Slave Registers which are held in the Bermuda Archives. The original hand-written Registers were created to facilitate compensation for slave-owners when the slaves would be emancipated. They provide a unique record and valuable research tool for many people who are tracing family or community history.

The databases were developed in searchable Excel format by Dr. Virginia Bernhard of the University of St. Thomas in Houston. They set out the names of owners, the total number of slaves and sex of the owners, the names of slaves, their sex, colour and work. Sadly they do not record the ages and birth places of the slaves, which are therefore only available from the originals on microfilm in the Bermuda Archives. Dr. Bernhard wanted to make these research tools available to the public, and the Bermuda Ombudsman has done so by releasing them to the Trust and two other organisations in Bermuda. In turning these databases over to the Ombudsman, Dr. Bernhard stated: “The Slave Registers are such a treasure. I have no objection to making the databases public – this is my way of saying thank you to Bermuda “. However, she stressed: “these are academic working lists. They are not perfect – there are some gaps and spelling errors”. The Archives are developing their own Slave Register database, but in the meantime the databases developed by Dr Bernhard will serve as useful tools for researchers.

• • 1821 register – pardon our progress as we are updating the data
  • 1834 register – pardon our progress as we are updating the data