Over $67,000 was raised at a fundraiser to help restore and reopen the historic Old Government House Museum damaged during the passage of Hurricane Irma.

Chairman of the Board of Old Government House Museum, His Excellency the Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert thanked everyone for their generous sponsorship and donations at the fundraising event titled a ‘Celebration of Virgin Islands’ History and Heritage’ under the theme, “Love Old Government House”.  He said it was testament to the strong support for the museum that so many people were attending.

Governor Jaspert in his remarks highlighted that the fundraising campaign aims to, “Restore once again an important treasure of our cultural heritage for everyone now and for future generations to learn from and enjoy.”

Over 200 guests enjoyed the celebratory night on Friday, February 15, which included live and silent auctions featuring lovely local artwork and local experiences. The winners received prizes including a seaplane ride to Anegada Beach Club and a Historic Tour down Main Street with Governor Jaspert and Historian Dr. Michael Kent.

The Governor further added that the Board of the Old Government House Museum is delighted with the fundraising gained through the event which is a great start to rebuild the museum.  Donations continue to be accepted at www.oghm.org.  A total of $500,000 needs to be raised to restore and reopen the Old Government House Museum.

The event also marked the opening night of an exhibition of local art, organised by cultural historian Ms. Ermin Penn, with many artists and collectors lending their work for the public display. The exhibition remains opened this week.

Patrons were treated canapes and food created by superb renowned local chefs including Chefs Willow, Dora, Imron, Gorvey and Jamaicee who volunteered their time to support the fundraising drive.

The audience was entertained by live steel pan music by Mrs. Arliene T. Penn, Ms. Carol Schoonhoven on the violin and Mr. Richard Sawney played the piano. At the end of the night many people enjoyed celebrating to music provided by DJ PushPop.

The candlelit reception at Old Government House was the first time the space had been used since before the hurricanes of 2017 and many guests reminisced about happy times they had previously spent visiting the old museum and events that they had enjoyed there in the past. One couple was even reminded of their wedding reception that was held in the building.

Mrs. Millie Jaspert, wife of Governor Jaspert in an update earlier this week shared, “A further substantial donation was received by the board which takes us closer to our fundraising goal. We appreciate everyone in the community's generosity and look forward to turning these funds into action."

The museum’s board is grateful to its many sponsors Rufred Forbes and Associates, Caribbean Cellars, Tico, Road Town Wholesale Ltd., Callwood Distillery and Good Moon Farm in addition to students from Elmore Stoutt High School and St George’s Secondary School who helped very competently before and during the evening. 

Photographs attached – Photo Credit (GIS:  Ronnielle Frazer)

Highlights from a ‘Celebration of Virgin Islands’ History and Heritage’ held at the Old Government House on February 15 under the theme, “Love Old Government House”.