The historic Morgan Lewis Windmill came alive on Sunday, June 1, as the Division of Culture in the Prime Minister’s Office, in collaboration with its Barbados World Heritage Committee, officially launched Heritage Month 2025 under the theme: “Preserving and Protecting Our Heritage”.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a month-long celebration that forms part of the broader Season of Emancipation, which runs until August 27. In her remarks, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, emphasised that preserving heritage is not just about honouring the past, but about shaping the future.
“We must recognise heritage as a living resource. It is a tool for empowerment, especially for our youth and a pathway toward building resilient, culturally grounded communities,” she said.
The Minister connected the Heritage Month observance to broader national goals, particularly the empowerment of youth and the development of new economies rooted in cultural heritage.
Dr. Sheron Johnson, Senior Cultural Policy and Research Officer and Focal Point for Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, reflected on the growth of Heritage Month since its inception in 2012.
“What began as a single initiative to mark our UNESCO inscription has evolved into a national observance. It now encompasses all aspects of Barbadian heritage – from built heritage to the stories and traditions that continue to shape our identity,” she noted. “We are excited to see increasing engagement from young people and communities islandwide.”
One of the highlights of the launch was the presentation of the Recognition of Contribution to Heritage Awards, acknowledging outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation of Barbadian heritage. This year’s honourees were:
- Peggy McGeary – for her work in education, folk culture and museum programming
- Virgil Broodhagen – for artistic excellence and historic preservation
- Neville Legall – for visual arts and cultural mentorship
- Bruce Jardine and Robert O’Neal – for architectural restoration and heritage leadership
- Professor Pedro Welch (posthumous) – for pioneering research in history and heritage. His daughter Gem Bonnett attended the event and accepted the award on his behalf.
Two Outstanding Heritage Stewards, Sherry Headley and Randy Batson, were also recognised for their volunteer service and youth mentorship in heritage initiatives.
Heritage Month 2025 features a diverse slate of public events, including:
- Jazz in the Churchyard – June 14 at St. Mary’s Anglican Church
- Historic Mosques of Bridgetown Book Launch – June 16
- Heritage Pop-Up at We Gatherin’ St. George – June 21
- Barbados National Trust Bus Tour – June 21
- Antiques Market and Writer’s Ink Literary Tour – June 22
- Youth Roundtable on Heritage and Science – June 25
- Rock Hall Freedom Village Tour – June 28
- BTMI Genealogy Lecture – June 29
The evening concluded with a rum tasting by Dr. Geoff Ward and guided tours of the windmill. (PR/GIS)
Caption: Minister with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight (centre), poses with Heritage Award honourees (left to right) – Gem Bonnett; Virgil Broodhagen; Peggy McGeary; Robert O’Neal; Bruce Jardine; and Neville Legall, at the launch of Heritage Month 2025 at the Morgan Lewis Windmill last Sunday.
