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Hanover Museum re-opens

The Hanover Museum, in Lucea was officially reopened on Friday, March 25, 2011, after some $2 million refurbishing works, which was undertaken by the Institute of Jamaica.

The facility, which was reopened under the theme ‘Labour: Resistance: Punishment’, houses a variety of artifacts dating back hundreds of years.

Custos of Hanover, Hon. Dr. David Stair, in bringing greetings at the opening ceremony, lauded the Institute for its commitment to preserving the heritage and culture of Jamaica in all its forms, and ensuring that all Jamaicans have an opportunity to learn about the country’s history.

In relating the history about the site of the museum and its original uses over three centuries ago, Dr, Stair said, “this structure gives testimony to the resistance of our African foreparents, to the crime of enslavement. It is therefore fitting that the permanent exhibition that will be housed here is entitled, ‘Labour: Resistance: Punishment’, as it bears testimony to the legacy of forced labour, resistance and punishment, which is a seminal part of our history”.

He called on Hanoverians to be reminded of the struggles and sacrifices made by their ancestors to enable their freedom. He expressed the view that the museum and its artifacts provide the opportunity for such remembrance.

“Now I urge all our Hanoverians to visit the Museum, learn a little of our History and be proud of who we are, and the strong legacy that has been left us as a parish”, he stated.

Meanwhile, social worker and former Executive Director for the Hanover Historical Society, the founding group for the museum, Angeline Clair, explained that the project came about after Hurricane Gilbert, with a view to restoring the historic integrity of the parish capital.

She noted that the work of the Hanover Historical Society has also led to the restoration and maintenance of the Georgian design of a number of buildings in Lucea, chief of which is the municipal building located in the town square.

The Hanover Museum was first opened in September of 1990, by then Governor General of Jamaica, Sir Howard Cooke.

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