National Trust completes more preservation works
Stabroek News
July 25, 2004
A section of the brick walkway connecting the ruins of Fort Zeelandia and the Court of Policy Hall. (Photo courtesy of the National Trust)
The National Trust of Guyana has completed a number of projects aimed at conserving national treasures.
According to a press release from the National Trust, preservation works were undertaken at the Court of Policy Hall, Fort Island, Fort Zeelandia and the 1763 Monument.
The press release said a new access bridge to Fort Zeelandia and a brick walkway connecting the fort and the Court of Policy Hall were constructed in 2002. In 2003, extensive rehabilitation was done on the Court of Policy Hall when the roof was restored, sanitary facilities were built and a brick parapet to consolidate the structure was put in place. In 2004, the fence encompassing the complex of this structure was repaired.
With regard to the 1763 Monument, the release said in 2003 the National Trust observed that two of the bronze plaques around the base of the concrete plinth had been stolen. The vandals had broken the concrete base and sawn the iron rods connecting the plaques. In an attempt to retrieve them, the Trust offered a reward for their return - to no avail.
The release said the Trust undertook to replace the plaques and in consultation with renowned artist Philip Moore, the Brass Aluminium and Cast Iron Foundry was contracted to fabricate and re-install the missing plaques. To prevent a re-occurrence, the Trust removed all the plaques and the mounted bases upon which they were placed were reinforced with additional features to secure them.
One of the reinforced plaques at the base of the plinth of the 1763 Monument. (Photo courtesy of the National Trust)
The Trust is appealing to members of the community to take an active role in the preservation of the nation's heritage.