The Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) announces that two of history’s most remarkable Nevisian-American stories are getting a new home. The Nevis Historical and Conservation Society (NHCS) has been awarded US$245,000 through the U.S. Embassy’s Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). The grant opens a major new chapter in how Nevis preserves and shares its heritage with the world.
The grant will support three key initiatives:
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- Restoration and conservation of Hamilton House, safeguarding the historic structure for future generations.
- Redevelopment of the Alexander Hamilton Museum, showcasing the story of the Founding Father’s Caribbean beginnings.
- A new permanent exhibit dedicated to Constance Baker Motley, the Nevisian-American civil rights lawyer who became the first Black woman appointed to the United States federal judiciary.
Born on Nevis, Alexander Hamilton became one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Born to Nevisian parents, Constance Baker Motley became one of the most influential civil rights lawyers of the 20th century. She helped dismantle segregation through the courts before making history on the federal bench.
“Nevis has given the world extraordinary people, and this investment ensures their stories are told where they began,” said Premier of Nevis, Hon. Mark Brantley. “Hamilton House and the new Constance Baker Motley exhibit will deepen the bonds between Nevis and the United States, enrich the experience of every visitor to our island, and remind our young people of what Nevisians have achieved on the world stage. We are grateful to the U.S. Embassy for this partnership.”
The project brings together leading technical and heritage partners. CyArk, a U.S.-based nonprofit specializing in 3D digital documentation for cultural heritage, will lead the project’s digital preservation and interpretation components. Regional heritage and curation expert Raimie Richardson will help develop the Alexander Hamilton storyline, exploring Hamilton’s Caribbean experience before he left for mainland North America.
Photo credit: Nevis Tourism Authority Â
The grant was formalized at an official signing ceremony on the grounds of the Alexander Hamilton Museum. NHCS Executive Director Teresa Herbert and U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Karin Sullivan signed the grant documents. Chargé d’Affaires Sullivan, Premier Brantley, and NHCS President Isabel Byron delivered remarks, and Executive Director Herbert presented an overview of the work ahead.
Hope Trott attended, representing the family that previously owned Hamilton House. NHCS Board members, partners, and stakeholders joined her.
Beyond preservation, the project will open new opportunities for education, digital engagement, community participation, and heritage tourism. It gives visitors even more reasons to discover the island where American history began.
