As we look back on the past few months, we’re proud to share stories of heritage brought to life, communities coming together, and places renewed for the future. From lively celebrations at Morgan Lewis Windmill, to the refreshing transformation of Cotton Tower Signal Station, to the launch of important new publications, this has been a season rich in connection, culture and care.
Every event and project has reminded us of something central: that history, beauty and nature belong to everyone, forever. Whether through guided tours, shared meals, lectures or conservation work, these experiences open doors to our past and inspire us to protect it for generations ahead.
In this edition, you’ll find highlights from recent events, updates on restoration projects, and a glimpse of what’s still to come. We invite you to explore, join in, and continue supporting the heritage that makes our island so special.
Celebrating Mothers, Heritage and Culture at Morgan Lewis Windmill
Families gathered at Morgan Lewis Windmill this Mother’s Day for a day filled with warmth, history and togetherness. Under sunny skies, guests shared delicious Bajan dishes, enjoyed live music, and took part in guided tours of the island’s last intact sugar mill.
For many children, it was their first encounter with this historic landmark, and our guides helped bring its story to life. The laughter, conversations and connections made throughout the day reminded us how heritage can unite generations and strengthen community bonds.
A Father’s Day to Remember
Following on from Mother’s Day, families returned to Morgan Lewis Windmill for a spirited Father’s Day celebration. A traditional Bajan buffet took centre stage, with new favourites like beer-battered fried fish and Foursquare rum BBQ chicken joining the spread.
Fathers and children explored the windmill, played games, and enjoyed the sweeping views of St. Andrew. The mix of food, history and fun created a lively and memorable occasion, honouring fathers and their role in shaping family life.
Cotton Tower Signal Station Renewed
High in the hills of St. Joseph, Cotton Tower Signal Station has been given a fresh lease of life. Recent conservation work included a new coat of paint and essential repairs, ensuring this much-loved landmark continues to stand proud as a symbol of resilience.
This project was made possible thanks to the generosity of Peter and Erica Bynoe of Store All and Michael Edwards and his fellow directors of Carter and Company Limited. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who made this restoration possible.
New “Windows” Heritage Bus Tour
We recently launched the first of a new series of heritage bus tours, led by cultural ambassador and historian Ronnie Carrington. Beginning at Tyrol Cot, the tour offered a moving introduction to the lives of enslaved Africans, before continuing through chattel house villages, Gun Hill Signal Station, Porey Springs, and Rock Hall Freedom Village – the first settlement established by freed people in Barbados.
Guests shared a meal at Morgan Lewis Windmill, surrounded by the beauty of St. Andrew, before reflecting on the day’s discoveries on the journey back to Tyrol Cot. The pilot tour was a resounding success, and we look forward to rolling out more dates soon.
Celebrating Shared Heritage: Launch of Historic Mosques of Bridgetown, Barbados
We were honoured to support the launch of Historic Mosques of Bridgetown, Barbados by Sabir Nakhuda and Suleiman Bulbulia. Held at the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre, the event welcomed a wide audience eager to learn more about the Muslim community’s contribution to Barbadian heritage.
This publication highlights both the architectural and cultural significance of Bridgetown’s mosques, and the vital role of the Muslim community in shaping modern Barbados. The book’s immediate sell-out shows the appetite for these stories. Once reprinted, it will be available across National Trust sites.
Honoring a Legacy: The Watson World Lecture
At the Barbados Museum, our President Geoffrey Ramsey delivered this year’s Watson World Lecture, honoring the late Dr Karl Watson – former President of the Trust and a towering figure in heritage and cultural preservation.
The evening was filled with warmth and humour, as colleagues and friends shared stories of Dr Watson’s impact: from shaping the island’s tourism and physical development plans, to inspiring generations through teaching, writing and storytelling. His legacy lives on in the heritage landscape of Barbados, and we are proud to continue building on the foundations he laid.
For those who missed it. you can see a recording of the lecture here:
Heritage Hills Hike: Exploring History on Foot
In partnership with We Gatherin St. Joseph, we hosted the first Heritage Hills Hike, guiding walkers through the landscape shaped by the dramatic Crab Hole landslip of 1785 – an event that followed the Great Hurricane of 1780.
Along the trail, participants learned how this natural disaster reshaped the parish and its communities, while taking in the striking scenery of St. Joseph. The hike blended physical activity with storytelling, giving both locals and visitors a deeper connection to the island’s heritage and environment.
Open House Season 2025: A Grateful Wrap-Up
This year’s Open House season brought together stunning historic properties, live performances and vibrant artisan markets – all celebrating the island’s diverse cultural tapestry. From Bagatelle Great House to Parliament Buildings and Lion Castle Platation House, each event offered something unique: guided tours, lively lectures, music, food and opportunities to connect.
We extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to property owners, historians, volunteers and craftspeople whose dedication makes this programme possible. Each Open House is a reminder of how heritage thrives when shared.
Closing Note
Through food, music, lectures, tours, hiking and conservation projects, we’ve celebrated the stories of Barbados while working to preserve them for generations to come.
