At the corner of Market and Long Streets in the heart of St. John’s stands one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most enduring historic landmarks, the former colonial courthouse which houses the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. Built in 1747, this Georgian-style building is one of the oldest structures in St. John’s. For over two centuries, it served as a center of colonial justice and civic life, and today, it remains a silent witness to the nation’s long and complex history.

Officially opened in 1985 by the Historical and Archaeological Society (HAS), the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural, social, and natural heritage of Antigua and Barbuda. Through carefully curated exhibits, the museum traces the islands’ story from its earliest human occupation by Archaic and Amerindian peoples to the colonial era, the sugar plantation economy, emancipation, and the evolution of a post-colonial state. Contemporary history, including national achievements in sports, science, and development, is also highlighted, ensuring the narrative remains relevant and forward-looking.

But the Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it is a living archive and educational resource. It supports historical research, fosters heritage awareness, and plays a crucial role in strengthening national identity and pride among citizens. It is a space where both locals and visitors can reflect on the past and celebrate new historical moments.

As the world prepares to celebrate International Museum Day 2025 under the theme The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities, this theme could not be more timely or more urgent for Antigua and Barbuda. The Museum building, itself a national treasure, is at serious risk. Despite ongoing maintenance by the HAS, years of wear, termite infestation, unpredictable weather, and the impact of modern materials have taken its toll. Leaks have worsened, the integrity of the wooden frame has been compromised, and critical areas of the building are now unusable. The time has come for full restoration.

If we do not act now, we risk losing not only one of our nation’s oldest buildings, but a vital space for memory, education, and identity. Despite limited resources, the HAS is determined to restore the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. The Museum is grateful to past and present support from organizations such as First Caribbean International Bank and the Mill Reef Club. With their support we have been able to develop new exhibits, launch outreach programmes, and complete essential structural assessments. The HAS membership and the staff of the Museum have also been great sources of support, but the scale of the current threat requires a broader, national response. Over the years we have invested over 780 000EC in repairs and upgrades.

We invite the public, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, private sector partners, our diaspora and the international community to join us in protecting this irreplaceable piece of our national heritage. We are asking for expertise, stories, old photos of the building, and funds. Together, we can ensure that the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda remains a space of learning, pride, and connection for generations to come.

In the coming months, we will be reigniting Unlock the Museum programming, launching new pop up exhibits around the country, and the first steps in an awareness programme.