The historic heart of Roseau, Dominica, saw a devastating fire sweep through its streets this morning, resulting in the destruction of several older structures. The blaze originated in the oldest section of the city, near the Old Market, and caused extensive damage to buildings with deep historical and cultural significance.
Dominica’s Dr. Lennox Honychurch, historian and cultural expert, confirmed the destruction of this historic site in a Facebook post this morning.
He pointed out that among the buildings affected was a structure dating back to 1784, which holds a notable place in the island’s architectural history.
This building was also featured in a painting created in that year by the renowned Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who lived and worked in Dominica during the late 18th century.
Brunias, celebrated for his vivid depictions of Caribbean life and landscapes, played an important role in documenting the cultural and social landscape of Dominica during that period.
He spent most of his Caribbean tenure in Dominica till his death on the island in 1796.
His works, considered an invaluable part of the island’s artistic heritage, were reportedly admired by Haitian revolutionary Toussaint Louverture.
The building in question can be seen in Brunias’s 1784 painting, positioned to the left of the scene.
In addition to the 1784 building, several other notable structures reportedly suffered damage or were destroyed, including Jolly’s Pharmacy, the Wolsey Edwards building, MacIntyre’s Gym, and Blomquist Lawyers’ Office.
I think that if, with the new development of the affected place, the pillars (as in the Linen Market) will be transformed into columns, that will preserve the historical and cultural aspect.
Coral limestone would be nice.
Where can we see the ‘Linen Market in Dominica’, please?
I know that some people want see these old structures retained for sentimental and historical purposes but by the extent of these damages, we should start thinking in terms of safety of keeping these buildings. Roseau need to be modernised in keeping with health and safety regulations, which mean, most of these old structures are not suitable for the modern era. Yes, sentiment and history is relevant but health and safety should take priority. Old time Roseau was designed for a past era. We need new architecture to meet the needs of the current and future era’s. This was a hazard waiting to happen. It is a miracle that no lives were lost.
So sad. Thankful no one was hurt. Now this is an opportunity to access Roseau properly. Please do something about the old ruins scattered across Roseau (if these ruins are of historical value, please give them a face lift). Most importantly the traffic/parking in Roseau. Let us all be thankful this did not happen during the day, because the fire department would never be able to get through the narrow streets with all the illegal parked cars and street vendors. Time for this long awaiting face lift of Roseau to begin.