The unveiling of a map showing Virgin Gorda in the plantation era was one of the major highlights for International Museum Day, observed on May 18.

Map designer and Curator of the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, Ms. Joann Hill unveiled the map during the ceremony to officially open the photo/art exhibition themed ‘Museums and Cultural Landscapes’ at the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Culture, Dr. Marcia Potter highlighted the objective of International Museum Day, that is, to raise the awareness of museums as important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace.

Dr. Potter added, “At the Ministry of Education and Culture, we recognise the importance of these landscapes, they not only help to enhance our tourism product, but they signify the rich culture and history of these islands we call home.”

The Permanent Secretary said the theme encourages everyone to seriously look at their cultural landscapes, to reflect what was done in the past, to protect, preserve and restore them, to review their current state and to chart a more definitive and structural approach to restore what remains of them.

Dr. Potter thanked the International Museum Day committee for their efforts in organising the various activities. The committee comprises Mrs. Luce Hodge-Smith, Mr. Geoffrey Brookes, Ms. Joann Hill, Mrs. Olive Vanterpool and Ms. Ermin Penn.

The photo/art exhibition is open to the public throughout the month of May until June 30. Fifteen artists have contributed to the exhibit thus far.

The Virgin Gorda Plantation Period Site Maps are available for sale at the Virgin Islands Folk Museum on Main Street for $25, with a special price for Government employees and students at $20. The museum opens daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4: 30 a.m.

International Museum Day is recognised annually since 1977 and is meant to raise awareness of the important role museums play in society. This year’s observance was held under the theme, ‘Museums and Cultural Landscapes’.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is committed to creating a “Culture of Excellence”.