When on February 18, 2008 I gazed at the plaque on the walls to the entrance to Fort Shirley which states that the revolt of the 8th British West Indian Regiment had led to the first mass emancipation of slaves in the British Empire, I was astonished. While I considered myself relatively well educated, we had never been taught such history at school. I was appalled at the lack of attention paid to emancipation of Africans and independence in our education system and media. In the US and major nations, the history of their societies is found in schoolbooks, museums, film, online media; symposiums are held, books are published with regularity and the national heritage is drilled into the psyche of the people. We still have not done that as a nation. That confrontation with our past inspired in part, the publication of “For King & Country: The Service & Sacrifice of the British West Indian Military Irving W. Andre & Gabriel Christian, 2009).” http://www.pontcassepress.com/?cat=7\\ Today, we must recognize the role of historian Dr. Lennox Honeychurch for filling that gap in our knowledge of our heritage. His direction of the rehabilitation – or resurrection – of Fort Shirley is a monumental step in the right direction of preserving national memory and ordering a heroic national narrative without which no civilization worthy of the name can be built.
On November 3, 2013, we celebrate 35 years of independence from Britain. At this time, it is only right and proper to compliment Honeychurch, and all other Dominicans and friendly nations who have had a hand in the resurrection of Fort Shirley. Through that effort, the stonework of the fort’s battlements has been cleared of brush. The cannons have been cleaned of rust and painted; and the barracks have been freed of the forest which had buried it under tropical greenery like the old Mayan pyramids of Central America, for approximately 150 years.
The fort was built to ward off invasion. In an odd twist of historical convergence, the work to reclaim the fort from the clutches of decay and the historical oblivion to which it had been confined started on October 25, 1983. On that morning the Grenada Invasion, by US and allied Caribbean forces, dislodged the military junta which had overthrown the Grenada Revolution and killed its leader Maurice Bishop. Dominica’s Prime Minister Eugenia Charles, under whose administration the rehabilitation work at the fort started, was at the center of that event in Caribbean military history.
A quick history of the fort reveals that it started as a small British Army garrison in 1765. It was a time when the Caribbean was convulsed by wars of European imperial conquest, the native Carib people relegated to the furthest reaches of the island and captive Africans were pressed into hard labor to extract wealth from the beautiful islands which embroider the otherwise tranquil Caribbean Sea. Built to safeguard what was a British possession, portions of the fort were designed by the most eminent American architect of the 1700s, Peter Harrison, whose works are now considered historic landmarks on the eastern seaboard of the United States.
From 1765 the fort grew to encompass most of the highlands of the Cabrits peninsula which juts off from the lowlands off Dominica’s second town of Portsmouth. In the words of Dr. Honeychurch:
Although the British undertook most of the construction, the French made significant additions during their occupation of Dominica 1778-1784. Together they amassed a garrison comprising one fort, seven gun batteries, seven cisterns, powder magazines, ordnance storehouses, barracks and officer’s quarters to house and provide for over 600 men on regular duty. With the end of hostilities between Britain and France, the garrison became obsolete and was finally abandoned in 1854. It remained in the hands of the British Admiralty until 1901 when it was transferred to the government of the colony and remained designated as Crown Land until being established as a National Park in 1986.
To rehabilitate the fort, an interesting international alliance must be complimented for the assistance given: The Canadian High Commission was first off the mark with a gift of $75,000; The British Government then gave $25,000; Geest Industries (the banana company which exported the island’s fruit to the UK) gave $15,000; Venezuela donated $250,000; the Chinese Government gave $50,000; the European Union gave $1,000,000; and then the Dominica Government contributed $1,000,000 toward the project. That contribution by Dominica’s Government comes from “User Fees” levied on visitors to the island’s national heritage sites.
On November 3, 2013, for the first time since 1854, the rebuilt barracks now houses a visiting military unit, as the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) of the Eudora Keans High School in the USVI camped alongside their student comrades from the Dominica Cadet Corps. The cadets are taking part in parades, hikes, and community service projects under their Commandant, Dominican born, Colonel Eddie Charles (US Army ret.). A former Dominica cadet himself, Charles has worked with Dominica’s USVI representative Lorraine Bannis and Cadet Commandant David Andrew to forge closer links between these youth leaders from Dominica and the USVI. Dr. Honeychurch has had an opportunity to school the visitors, and their Dominican companions, in the history of the site.
Today, the Fort Shirley complex houses historical markers, exhibits of cannon, and displays on marine science, history and the flora and fauna of the Cabrits peninsula. Many Dominican businesses now hold events at the fort, and its bucolic setting has been the site of a jazz festival and many a local wedding. The quality of work done at Fort Shirley is on par with what one may find at Colonial Williamsburg or any Pharaonic site in Egypt, or Castles in Europe, opened to tourism. With such a refurbished monument to history, we now have a platform for academic and heritage tourism. Plans are already afoot to receive a delegation of UK based academics in 2014. In the words of Dr. Honeychurch, who is the curator of the Fort Shirley heritage project, “A fort designed for war, has now been turned into one of learning and peace for all humanity.” Such a beneficial purpose is most fitting a tribute to Dominica’s independence. It is also a worthy salute to those who gave their lives for freedom amidst that clash of muskets and cannonades in 1802. Their courage birthed liberty for those held in bondage in our Caribbean. By the resurrection of Fort Shirley as symbolic of such sacrifice, we will always remember them.
I found this article to be very informative regarding background about Fort Shirley and what exactly went on at the site. It was great to read about the different areas of the world donating money to the rebuild of such a significant landmark to Dominica
Gabriel
I just read your article on Fort Shirley this morning..A great pice of work and to be recommended to students and adults alike
Last night, Wednesday Nov. 6 2013, I interviewed Dr. Honychurch on my weekly radio show. What an inspiration this man is. I consider Lennox to be no less than a Dominican Treasure. Anyone who takes the time to listen to his many lectures, read his books, visit his website or spend any amount of time in his presence will come away with an impression of how generous his is with his knowledge and how freely he shares.
As a school boy at DGS we studied history using books written by Dr. Honychurch. I also participated in camps in the early 80’s assisting him in digging out the dirt and other debris that has accumulated in the ruins – sifting the soil to find artifacts and white-washing the inside walls of structures. So I have an idea of the amount of work, dedication and commitment that it took to get the place to look the way it does today.
Understanding our past, and all the various circumstances that bring us to where we are today as country and people is key to our ability to become a viable and self-sustaining Nation. It will help us to develop an appreciation for ourselves as Dominicans and enhance our respect for our unique heritage. I believe that this is what we need to motivate us to work together to bring Dominica forward and to elevate the quality of life of our people; I assume that this is the ultimate objective of all of us.
Great job Mr. Christian on a superbly written article.
Dr. Honeychurch should not be taken down since he almost single handedly perpetuating the legacy of his ancestors. The other 99.9% of Dominicans of African descent should be taken down for failing to uplift not only what history has left which is dissapearing in ruins everywhere from the rails in Glandvillia to the Old mill, but they also fail to recognise the best of today’s Dominica based on silly party colours….
I was so happy to greet my fellow Haitian young man from the US Troops and also the rest of them. I really congrts them for making this effort to be here and they also felt happy.
Gabu piece has just proven to me that Diaspora can contrinbute significantly to Dominica’s development outside of engaging in active politics. This is an exceelent example. Well writen. And for those who attempt to take down Dr. Honeychurch, I challenge them to put their contribution to Dominica’s development side by side with that of Dr. Honeychurch. I shudder to think whatit would look like
Hi Gabriel
As usual, a wonderful piece. We spend much time on irrelevant aspects of unwanted activities in Dominica.
Denise Joseph published an article on DNO recently and I was forced to comment that we should at least hold national civic ecpositions during Independence period to speak to our History.
Like you, I note that our heritage will be lost to future generations. We seem to only hold on to the present year and move on to the next without chronicling our rich history.
Granted, some young learnt many aspects of Dominican life from school and those who ventured out on camps(Cadets & youth groups) had more exposure to Dominica’s rich history; we do have a rich history.
Remember, we have a Ministry of Culture. he who ignores history lives to regret it
Among all the speeches by Govt. officials, we’ve heard absolutely nothing about the path for us to pursue towards our Economic Independence. 35 Years after, this beautiful Nature Isle and its people have been subjected to a “Beggar mentality.” institutionalizing ‘Red Clinic”, belittling our people.
The rural communities, their lifeblood, Agriculture, in serious decline. A few, however, have amassed wealth, incompatible with their income/salary, while in public office, using all kinds of dubious ways.
Institutions are being derailed, losing their “Independence” through heavy political influences. Justice is eluding us day by day. The ” Big wigs” have put things in place to protect, defend, shelve, prevent being brought to justice.
Mental slavery, after 35 Years, has penetrated the entire society, thanks to those who want to continue to manipulate, fool the masses. When those few control your minds, you end up like Zombies. And so they do what they want, when they want, how they want and you accept their illegalities, wrongs, arrogance anytime. You become their slaves.
After 35 Years of Independence, a leader in Dominica in the 21st. century says, “The country is too FREE?” Just check who is the Nature Isle’s President in 2013? From Minister of National Security to President IMPOSED on the people in a couple days after. Make your eyes boil your peas.
Gaibu, I think you are the greatest military historian I have come in contact with – and not just from the Caribbean!
Kudos to you for giving Dr. Honychurch his props. The man has done a lifetime of outstanding historical work for Dominica. Regarding an earlier comment that this is the history of the colonist and enslavers, people alive today don’t get to choose their history of hundreds of years ago. We can celebrate our victories and endurance but changing the name of Fort Shirley to Bala Fort of Kalinago Fort would be stupid.
I think that among all indigenous people worldwide, our Kalinago people are most celebrated and have the most opportunity. Check for yourself. Let’s be forward thinking. If Lenox and Gaibu are doing great work, support them. Support the cadets so that our legacy can entrusted the the next generation of bright, disciplined and vigorous people!
Interesting as a Dominican there is so much I still do not know of my beautiful country. Whenever I come across these articles I do appreciate them and learn alot from them.There is much more to learn many thanks for the history lesson keep them coming.
don!want to sound killjoy all the money given to the project was that in US$s or EC$ ,it give sums which 1 please so that we know ,,,
Dr. Honeychurch deserves considerable credit for enlightening our past but with due respect his perspective has been too Euro-centric to be of much use to an independent Dominica. For example the fort which was renovated was used in its time an instrument of our subjugation and enslavement. His education is simply a continuation of the propaganda of the victor over the victim. Does his work celebrate the adventures and ingenuity of the slave in his quest for freedom and survival or the brutality that he endured? Absolutely not. It recalls and celebrate the success of his captives. My question to the writer of this article is: If you are educated and have not heard of that, then you should be writing a different article questioning the good doctor.
Okay smart, why not go study history and come educate us in ” Afrocentric” history in regards to the fort. This place sat desolated for decades, did we “blacks”find it fit to renovate and teach ” our”history? Theere are two sides to every story, what’s your side? Dr Honychurch has done well. Stop the discrimination.As my former teacher at SMA,he taught me well.And as for the writer of this article,you can’t fit his shoes, otherwise you would have been more considerate in your none sense. Well done Dr Honychurch.
what did you read? read and understand before you comment, seems your comments do not reflect the article, seems you are trying to politicize it.
Here we go again. Slamming me without reading my work. But I am accustomed. Please get a copy of “Dominica’s Cabrits and Prince Rupert’s Bay” and my research on the formation and revolt of the West India Regiments. Of the recognition of African labour and skills in building the fortifications. Of the life of the enslaved at the Cabrits Garrison. And yes, the presence of the indigenous Amerindians is recorded as well.
When Gabriel, in this excellent article, makes mention of being astonished at reading the plaque related to the West India Regiments and their role in the mass emancipation of 1802…who do you think put up that plaque of recognition?
I welcome a full debate, but please be fully informed. And do not judge me naively on the basis that simply because I am mainly of European descent, that I am automatically “Eurocentric” in outlook… after all, my work on the African heritage in Dominica’s culture see (my website http://www.lennoxhonychurch.com) is a case in point.
Lennox, no good deed goes unpunished.
I am encouraged by your meek,humble, yet firmly resolved reply.
I actually visit your website on a few occassions in recent times Dr. Honychurch and I feel most impressed, priviledged, honored and enlightened! I exceptionally love the A-Z section (a new source of education for me and my family – I challenge the ICT & computer wiz kids to, on your permission, use it as a source for a new computer Trivia word game)
It would test their ICT skills, and stimulate a new interest among the youth in our history, culture, architecture, flora & fauna utilizing the new technological medium they know best.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK DR. HONYCHURCH
11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you
I have learnt that when people attempt to belittle or put you down just become a DASHEEN LEAF & SUCCEED EVEN MORE!
THE BEST REVENGE IS MASSIVE SUCCESS!! UBUNTU !
My forefathers lifted that yoke from their shoulders long time ago Mwemen, so I can live as a free man. I would suggest you get rid of that self-imposed baggage also. Fort Shirley is part of our history, as much as the concentration camp in Auschwitz is a reminder for all mankind what can happen if we do not cherish and safeguard these freedoms.
I am not seeking to celebrate one perspective over another. Fort shirley commemorates artifacts of our European past. Thats good. Shouldn’t it be balanced by those celebrating our African heritage? After all we are 90 percent African.
The author said the fort was meant to ward off invasion but it was mainly used to keep the slaves in their place. What he failed to say was that it was built from the lashing and scourging of the backs of his ancestors. These huge rocks and canons, drawn on the backs of slaves to protect those who would torment them. Next time you visit the fort look with the eyes of an exslave. Maybe you might be more enlightened and inspired.
Yah! But you doh go to Auschwitz to admire German engineering and cleverness in killing six million people.
Fool!
Why don’t you write an Afro-Centric version?
Take note of the precision of our Cadets! Just look at their boots as an indicator of their precision and synchronization. WELL DONE TO THE COMMANDANT, THE TRAINERS AND THE RANK & FILE!!
I salute you For such a wonderful and richly delivered article. So erudite, so relevant. It evokes true and meaningful pride in self and country. It points us to the stages of emancipation and that emancipation of all forms is a continued transformation, renaisance, rebuilding, restoration and renewing of the mind body and spirit.
It pays respectful homeage to all it is due to and points to the virtue of gratitude. It salutes the dedicated work and passion of Dr. Honychurch. i visited the Carbrits alot with my family and had a few occassions to interact with Dr. Honychurch. he always shared a few minutes ot of his very very busy schedule. A TRUE DOMINICAN HERO.
More importantly though, the article stressed the sgnificance to our youth who are THE PRESENT AND THE FUTURE. I hope one of them will be a historian too. Meanwhile we ust all learn our history and tell the story.
The earth keeps on turning, people live and die
But our spirit borne in darknest
Cannot be crushed on its way to the sunrise
This living generation on earth will carry the torch further and further.
UBUNTU ! UBUNTU! Because you are I am !
I LOVE DOMINICA and salute all those who love and cherish her ! HAPPY INDEPENDENCE TO ALL !
Very interesting article.Can this article be found in any book? What’s the title? Where can i get one? On another note i believe we need to encourage more young people to join the cadet corp.With a man like Col.Charles helping to train our youth we just cannot go wrong.Perhaps we might need to print pamphlets and place them at each secondary school encouraging our young ones to enlist in the corp.Oh, by the way we certainly need more exchanges like this one.Can we start next summer?
The cadet corp has always wore a red beret.I was in the Saint mary’s Cadet Corp in the 70″ so i can inform you.
Lest we forget! Dominica is filled with history, British and French of all. We must also not forget the Arawaks and Caribs, the latter which was then referred to up to a few years ago.
We must recognize our history for what it is worth and what transpired in those days.
We have much to celebrate. Furthermore it is our history and we must accept it. We have no other choice.
Thanks to Lennox who has revived our interest in Dominica’s history.
For some obvious reason I don’t like that RED CAP uniform. It looks too much like Chavez Regime.
Oh please! What else will you critic? Never satisfied!
You are giving our friends in Venezuela too much attention. A red beret is worn by many military-and police forces all over the world, including the illustrious British Parachute regiment. Venezuela does not have an exclusivity on this. Happy independence.
y bring politic in everything if u have nothing good to say shout it
Indeed. Quite enlightening. Our history books have been lacking in such rich content. Thank you Gabu. These young cadets look so smart. There’s just ‘something’ about someone in uniform.
Just an observation. It’s Honychurch.. there is no e.
I think the reparation we should seek from Europe, could support similar restoration projects like this. We also need someone to understudy Dr. Honychurch.. to continue and preserve this education.
A wonderful article, very educational and enlightening on this the 35th birthday of our nation. Thanks.