ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius – The Statia Cultural Heritage Implementation Committee, in collaboration with the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation, announces a week-long Community Archaeology initiative from June 22–26, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, on the plot of land next to the Hospitainer in the Princess area.
This activity is part of ongoing preparations for the November 13th, 2026, reburial of 69 ancestral remains excavated in 2021 at the 18th-century Golden Rock Plantation. It ensures the descendant community plays an active role in the reburial preparations.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Nicholas Budsberg, a US-based archaeologist who has worked on Statia in the past, volunteers will carefully examine the reburial site. Tasks include controlled digging, washing, bagging finds, and helping with storage and documentation of materials.
Besides volunteering, the public can observe the archaeological work. Community members are encouraged to ask questions, join discussions, and share stories or memories about the area.
“Community archaeology allows Statians to be directly involved in understanding and caring for their own heritage” the organizers noted.
Residents, descendants, and all interested people are invited to take part in any capacity that feels meaningful to them.
Contact
Email: implementationc31@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +1 721 586 2553
