SGF Continues Heritage Preservation Project

With the renewed energy and funding received from its loyal corporate and individual members, the St. George’s Foundation is now prepared to continue the restoration of various assets located within Ferry Point Park.

A spokesperson said, “This initiative aligns with the St. George’s Foundation’s mission: “to support the UNESCO World Heritage Site through collaboration, education, and awareness”, and fits in with our Education Program.

“A Memo of Understanding [MOU] has been signed between SGF and the Bermuda Government Ministry of Public Works, Department of Parks, to allow us to collaborate as partners to continue the important work in preserving and restoring our heritage sites and teaching all Students and Residents the importance of our history as a way to move forward.

“On Wednesday, 17th November at 8:30am personnel and volunteers from the Department of Parks and the St. George’s Foundation will meet at Ferry Island Fort to clear several casuarinas of various sizes from the approach to the fort entrance, and extensive natal plum bush on the surrounding ramparts. There is also work to be done around the Fort pathways that lead to the Horse Ferry Crossing over to Coney Island Park.

“Ferry Island Fort, replaced the nearby and much smaller Burnt Point Fort. With its completion between 1795-98 it enhanced the protection of the ferry crossing and the shipping lanes in the Castle Harbour [then named Southampton Harbour] and the North Shore. Equipped originally with three cannons [by 1810 it had four], it also served as a defensive position for the island of St. George’s should any invading force approach from the mainland through what is now the Bailey’s Bay area.”

Treasurer of the SGF Heritage Preservation Working Group and Board Member Mr. Peter Barrett said, “These are exciting times as we work to ensure our fortifications are safe and presentable for all to visit and learn of our great history. SGF aims to ensure we provide our locals, students and visitors of all age’s enjoyable experiences around our UNESCO World Heritage Site.”

Chairman of the Board, Ms. Cheryl Hayward-Chew added, “The St. George’s Foundation Board is excited to be continuing this important program that is clearly aligned with our mission of collaboration, education and awareness. We look forward to supporting Bermuda’s UNESCO World Heritage through tangible initiatives such as this.”

Volunteers are welcome. For more information and in order to ensure Covid-19 restrictions are maintained, please contact the SGF General Manager Peter Frith at manager@sgf.bm or Call 536 1637.

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