Dear Editor,
In May I visited historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta Georgia. The church is on the registry of historic buildings preserved by the United States Trust, so that future generations of Americans can be inspired and empowered by such an edifice. I mention this visit because I am afraid that one day my grandchildren will have nothing of historic value to be inspired by in this dear land of ours. Last year many of us watched as the old New Amsterdam hospital finally fell to the ground. Built in 1881 with funds provided by the Public Works Department (British Guiana) the hospital was finally completed in 1884 and occupied in 1885. Until its sad demise as a consequence of neglect and ignorance, this building was one of the two surviving architectural masterpieces designed by Cesar Castellani, an architect employed by the Public Works Department of British Guiana. It was an outstanding example of timber architecture and one of the first ‘modern’ hospitals of that era. Today we are witnessing the demolition of the St Barnabas Church, a building that has been an integral part of the city’s landscape since 1884.
Editor the National Trust of Guyana was established following the passage of the National Trust Act No 7 of 1972. The act makes provision for the preservation of monuments, sites, places and objects of historic interest or national importance. It is apposite to note that the term ‘monuments’ includes any buildings, structures, objects, or other works of man. That the National Trust chose not to preserve these two structures is negligent and shortsighted and demands an explanation. If one were to go strictly by the mission of the Trust which states: “To conserve and promote the nation’s patrimony so that the present and future generations will access and enjoy the richness of Guyana’s heritage,” then please tell me why these two buildings did not qualify.
It is very obvious to even the casual observer that those in authority in this country have no appreciation for history, the arts, culture and the so called ‘finer things in life.’ There is a crass almost unsophisticated mentality that is evident at the highest levels of government. The preservation of buildings like St Barnabas and the old New Amsterdam hospital, not only ensure the survival of our national heritage but their unique architectural value is priceless.
What is depressing is that the National Trust’s vision actually articulates most of the arguments that one would make to keep these structures in place. The vision statement is to keep our heritage valued and preserved; our history recorded; our people inspired and empowered. Unfortunately these are just words and the Trust has failed us yet again. When a landmark like St George’s Cathedral cannot get money from the Trust then we are duty bound to demand answers. Is there a national registry of historic building to be preserved? Have buildings been identified for preservation because of their architectural style (of certain periods)? These are important not only for students of history, but for us as a people to be inspired and empowered by the industry and craftsmanship of our forebears.
So as the bulldozers level St Barnabas, one can only hope that those at the National Trust will at least place a plaque at the site, with information for future generations.
As we go to the polls this year, we must reflect on these things. Elections have consequences, and administering a nation involves much more than building a few roads and awarding house lots. We deserve and must demand better. It is time for change in Guyana.
Yours faithfully,
Mark Archer
