How long have you been working at the National Museum, and what brought you here initially?
I’ve had the privilege of working at the National Museum since 2007, when I was offered the position of Deputy Director of Administration & Operations. Taking on this role was not only a significant career milestone but also a unique opportunity to deepen my understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history. The museum, with its rich collection and diverse exhibits, has been an inspiring environment where I could combine my administrative skills with my passion for preserving and sharing our cultural heritage.
Over the years, I've had the chance to contribute to various aspects of museum management, including overseeing operations, supporting curatorial teams, and ensuring the smooth execution of exhibitions and educational programs. This role has allowed me to work closely with colleagues from different departments, helping to foster collaboration across the museum and ensuring that we fulfill our mission of making history accessible and engaging for visitors.
As I’ve grown within the organization, my exposure to historical artifacts, research, and public programming has given me a much deeper appreciation for the power of history to shape our present and future. The museum's commitment to storytelling and preserving the past has been a constant source of inspiration. Through this journey, I’ve had the privilege of not only learning more about our history but also contributing to its preservation for generations to come.
What’s one of your favorite memories or moments while working at the Museum?
Reopening the National Museum of the Cayman Islands after its extensive refurbishment following the damage caused by Hurricane Ivan was an extraordinary moment of joy and pride for the community. The renovation project was no small feat, with the museum undergoing significant upgrades to its infrastructure, preservation efforts, and the creation of new exhibits. These efforts not only restored the museum as a physical space but also reconnected Caymanians with their rich cultural heritage and history.
When the doors finally reopened to the public, the excitement was palpable. Locals, many of whom had long awaited the museum's return, gathered to witness the transformation. The new permanent exhibits, which had been carefully curated and designed, showcased the depth and diversity of Cayman’s history—from its indigenous peoples and colonial past to its more modern-day achievements. The exhibits were not just displays of artifacts but immersive experiences that told stories of resilience, culture, and identity. Visitors marveled at the intricate details and narratives woven into the exhibits, which highlighted the islands’ natural beauty, maritime traditions, and the enduring strength of the community.
For many Caymanians, it was a deeply emotional experience. The museum's reopening symbolized a return to normalcy after the devastating hurricane, and seeing the community’s history celebrated in such a meaningful way fostered a renewed sense of pride and belonging. Families, school groups, and tourists were seen engaging with the exhibits, learning about the islands' past, and reflecting on the ways in which the Cayman Islands have evolved over time.
The museum’s reopening not only marked the completion of a major refurbishment project but also underscored the resilience of the people and their commitment to preserving their culture for future generations. The excitement on the faces of Caymanians, whether they were rediscovering long-forgotten aspects of their heritage or experiencing the museum for the first time, was a testament to the importance of the National Museum as a cultural hub for the islands. The event was a true celebration of community, history, and the collective effort to rebuild and preserve Caymanian identity in the wake of disaster.
Do you have a favorite artefact, artwork, or exhibit in the museum? What makes it special to you?
My favorite exhibit is the A/V theater due to its ability to offer a comprehensive, yet concise, overview of the islands' history. From the earliest days of the indigenous people who first inhabited the region to the arrival of European settlers, the theater immerses you in the rich cultural and historical tapestry that shaped the Cayman Islands. Through the use of high-quality video, narration, and vibrant visuals, it provides a visual journey through time, illustrating significant events, key figures, and the islanders’ resilience in the face of natural disasters and societal changes.
One of the most striking aspects of the theater is how it brings the stories of the three islands to life. Viewers learn how Grand Cayman, with its bustling capital, George Town, became the economic hub of the region; how Cayman Brac, known for ‘The Bluff’, has nurtured a distinct island culture and way of life; and how Little Cayman, with its small population, holds onto its traditional charm and unspoiled natural beauty. The film sets the stage for visitors, giving them a strong sense of connection to each island before they delve deeper into the specific exhibits that follow within the museum.
What’s the most rewarding part of working at the National Museum?
The most rewarding part of working at the Cayman Islands National Museum is the constant opportunity to learn and discover new stories about the islands’ rich history and diverse traditions. Every day brings a deeper understanding of how the Cayman Islands have such a complex and multifaceted cultural heritage. The chance to consistently hear these stories and learn about how traditions varied from one island to the next is both inspiring and fulfilling, as it provides an ongoing journey of personal and professional growth.
Hearing these stories firsthand from Caymanians through oral histories and personal accounts, is also incredibly rewarding. Whether it's a family heirloom passed down through generations or an object that represents a certain period of change in the islands, the personal stories associated with these items make history come alive. There’s something incredibly special about knowing that you are preserving and sharing these stories with others, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from them.
Working in a museum allows you to help ensure that the cultural legacy of the Cayman Islands is safeguarded, shared, and celebrated. Whether it’s helping curate exhibits, researching local history, or interacting with museum visitors, each day provides an opportunity to deepen your own understanding of the islands and to share that knowledge with others. It’s an honor to be part of the process of educating and inspiring visitors, whether they are Caymanians rediscovering their heritage or tourists learning about the islands for the first time.
How do you keep visitors engaged and excited about the museum’s offerings?
One of the ways I accomplish this is by offering impromptu tours of the galleries, which allows me to provide a personal and interactive experience that goes beyond the usual scripted exhibits. These tours provide an opportunity to connect with visitors in a way that feels more authentic and spontaneous, while also offering deeper insights into the museum's collection and the evolving history of the Cayman Islands.
The key to these impromptu tours is the personal touch they bring. Rather than following a rigid script, I can tailor the tour to the interests of the group or individual, making the experience more relevant to them. Some visitors may be interested in the islands' maritime heritage, while others might be fascinated by the cultural shifts over the last few decades. Being able to respond to their curiosity and guide them through the galleries based on their interests creates a more meaningful and memorable experience. This personalized interaction helps to spark excitement and fosters a sense of connection between the visitor and the history on display.
I also find that these tours encourage more interactive discussions with visitors. They may ask questions, share their own experiences, or even challenge some of the ideas presented. This two-way exchange is invaluable, as it allows me to not only engage with the visitors but also learn from them. Hearing about their perspectives and how they relate to the islands' history helps me refine the tours and continuously improve the way we present the museum's offerings.
What role do you think museums play in the community, and how does this museum contribute?
Museums play a crucial role in any community by serving as guardians of culture, history, and identity. They are not just places where artifacts are displayed; they are educational hubs that offer a deep connection to the past, help us understand the present, and inspire future generations. The Cayman Islands National Museum contributes significantly to this mission by focusing on the preservation of the unique Caymanian culture, heritage, and the arts, offering visitors of all ages a chance to connect with their roots and learn about the island’s rich history.
One of the museum’s primary roles is education. It provides visitors—whether they are students, residents, or tourists—with a well-rounded understanding of Caymanian life, from its indigenous beginnings to its colonial past, through to the modern-day influences that have shaped the islands. For local schoolchildren, the museum serves as an invaluable resource, offering a hands-on way to learn about their history and heritage. It gives them a deeper understanding of their own culture, fostering a sense of pride and connection to the community. Through the museum’s exhibits, educational programs, and interactive events, young people are introduced to key historical figures, milestones, and customs that have defined the Cayman Islands. This kind of education goes beyond textbooks, allowing for a more immersive and dynamic learning experience.
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