Goverment House Museum [Photo Curtis deRavariere, Paul's Photo Services]

Government House re-opens as a Museum

Last week Friday, Chief Minister Hon. Ralph T. O'Neal cut the inaugural 
ribbon and declared Old Goverment House Museum open. During the first days of operation the Museum has reported a regular influx of visitors who 
showed great interest in the displays and memorabilia. 

The Museum is open Monday through Saturday 9am to 2pm. The original structure dating back to 1899 was destroyed by the killer-hurricane of 1924. The present structure was built on the same site in 1925-26 and was the home of Commissioners, Presidents, Administrators and Governors up until 1999 when it was deemed unsuitable. The Island Sun published an editorial against the demolition of the historic building and members of the public expressed their disagreement with the official decision. Eventually common sense prevailed and a new Government House is now being built on adjacent land while the old structure has been transformed into a museum.

Many Royal Visits had their focal point at Old Government House: including The Queen Mother (1964), Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip (1966 and 1977), Princess Margaret (1972), and Prince Philip (1993). The restoration is an ongoing project and much help is still needed in funds, furniture and the like, to display the story of those that lived and worked there and all help is welcome. Please contact Old Government House Management Board at 284 494 4091. [Photo Curtis deRavariere, Paul's Photo Services]