June 10, 2020 – The National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ Historic Programme has received a boost as a result of the generosity of the DART Corporate Sponsorship Committee and the owners of the Great House condominiums, who have both kindly donated to the Programmes built heritage and cultural initiatives.

The funds will mean that the National Trust be able to continue looking after its twelve historic sites without compromising necessary details such as insurance and maintenance.

The National Trust’s historic programme promotes awareness and appreciation of Cayman’s built heritage and brings our unique traditions and culture to life. The Programme supports one of the primary goals of the National Trust which is to safeguard historic sites for current and future generations. The National Trust in addition to restoring and maintaining its historic sites, also conducts research, organizes events and educational opportunities all to promote and preserve Caymanian customs and traditions.

“On behalf of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands and particularly the Historic Programme, I would like to extend profound thanks and gratitude to both Dart and the Great House owners for their generosity and keen interest in the preservation of the Cayman Islands built heritage” stated Nadia Hardie, Executive Director for the National Trust.

The uncertainty of recent times due to COVI-19 has meant that many fundraising activities and revenue sources have been heavily impacted. As a non-profit, non- governmental organization, the National Trust relies heavily on the generosity of its members and donors.

National Trust Historic Programmes Manager, Stuart Wilson, who works closely with the dedicated Historic Advisory Council noted “This benevolence, especially at this time demonstrates Dart’s and the Great House owner’s passion for safeguarding Caymanian culture and protecting Cayman’s past. I believe it’s a reflection of our community’s growing interest in protecting built heritage sites and building national pride”.

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands owns and protects the following properties across our three Islands:

Fort George (George Town); Dr. Roy’s Ironshore (George Town); Nurse Leila’s House (West Bay); East End Lighthouse Park (East End); Mission House (Bodden Town); Guard House Park (Bodden Town); Heritage Beach (East End); Jackson Wall Manor (Spotts Newlands); the Old Savannah Schoolhouse (Savannah); Wat-ler’s Cemetery (Prospect); Eldemire House (Cayman Brac).

The Mission House in Bodden Town is currently offering virtual tours via ZOOM. For more information on how to register as a group or to book individually, email: [email protected]