News
Waterloo Part of Turks and Caicos Living History says Governor
Grand Turk, 11 Jun 2015 – The 200th anniversary of one of the most important and historic buildings in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is being celebrated on, Monday, 15 June 2015.
His Excellency the Governor’s official residence in the capital Grand Turk was named Waterloo after the famous battle fought in 1815.
The anniversary was marked by a reception hosted by the Governor at the house on the occasion of Her Majesty the Queen’s official birthday.
“Waterloo is an important, historic and living piece of the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Governor Peter Beckingham.
“At a time when there is a growing appreciation of TCI culture for residents and visitors alike, Waterloo must be recognised as one of the most significant buildings in the Caribbean, given its age, and its key role at the heart of the Islands’ political development.
“The Islands are very fortunate that this historic building has been so well cared for, and has survived fires, termites, remodelling work and hurricanes in 1866, 1926, 1945 and 2008.”
In recognition of the anniversary, Governor Beckingham has published a commemorative booklet about the property, including a forward by local historian Dr Carlton Mills who said, “The significant role that this property has played in the Turks and Caicos since 1815 must be captured and shared as an important part of the Islands’ heritage and legacy.”
Historical, cultural and political highlights of Waterloo include:
The Waterloo residence was built in 1815, and named after the Napoleonic battle of June 18, 1815. It was built in the style of a Bermudan home, with just one wing and, in the style of the time, an open air kitchen.
In 1857 the local owner of Waterloo, James Misick, sold the property to the British Government for £1,046. The British had been looking for a more secluded property for their ‘King’s Agent’ or Crown representative in the TCI, known as the President.
In 1874, on the request of the people of TCI, the Islands became a dependency of Jamaica. With this change in constitutional status Britain was no longer represented by a President but by a Commissioner, who reported to the Governor-General in Jamaica, and lived in Waterloo.
By the 1940s the Commissioner, Edwin Arrowsmith, found the house in poor repair; finding it, “covered with old cloth backed paper which was dilapidated and housed multitudes of cockroaches”. He begun some modernisation, which was continued by a number of his successors.
After Jamaica became independent in 1963, the TCI became a Dependency of the United Kingdom, and responsibility fell to the Governor General of the Bahamas, who nominated Administrators to represent British interests, who continued to live in Waterloo.
Her Majesty the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and Princess Alexandra have all visited Waterloo.
In 1973 after Bahamian independence, the TCI chose to retain its British Dependent status and the Islands welcomed its first Governor.
In 1975 members of the Junkanoo Club marched on Waterloo to demand social, economic and political reform. They held a sleep out on the lawn and remained there until their demands were met. Their protest secured a new Constitution and the start of TCI Ministerial Government in 1976. The first Chief Minister was the Right Honourable James Alexander George Smith, or ‘JAGS’, McCartney.
Renovations and improvements to Waterloo were commissioned in 1993, to restore as far as possible the original features, including the windows and the property’s unusual guttering.
In 1999 a nine-hole golf course was created in the grounds, and despite damage in the 2008 hurricane, it is still used by local players who encounter tough greens and unusual fairways!
Today Waterloo is the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen’s representative in the UK Overseas Territory of the Turks and Caicos Islands, His Excellency the Governor. The house is regularly used for meetings with the Premier, the official opposition, overseas investors, church leaders and community groups, and school children regularly tour the building and property.
PROVIDENCIALES,TCI MAY 2, 2024: World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed annually on May 8, pays tribute to the unwavering dedication of volunteers and the lasting influence of humanitarian efforts worldwide. This significant day commemorates the birth of Henry Dunant, the visionary behind the Red Cross movement. Dunant’s groundbreaking idea involved establishing national relief societies comprised of volunteers who would receive training during peacetime. Their mission: to offer neutral and impartial aid in times of war and crisis.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross (TCIRC), a vital part of this global humanitarian network, continues to make a difference in the lives of those affected by crises. “Keeping Humanity Alive”: This year’s powerful theme serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering dedication of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Their commitment extends to upholding human dignity, alleviating suffering, and providing crucial assistance to those facing dire circumstances, especially in remote and hard-to-reach regions. As we mark World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, let’s recognize the commitment and service of our Turks and Caicos Islands’ 200 + volunteers to alleviating suffering and promoting community resilience throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Red Cross Month Activities:
Community Outreach on All Islands: We’ll coordinate community outreach programs on each of the islands. Our volunteers will focus on raising awareness about health, disaster preparedness, and hygiene when engaging with the community.
First Aid Training Workshops: Wednesday 8th May 2024, 5pm to 7pm Community First Aid Workshop at Red Cross Building, Sunshine Plaza, 1005 Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Our first aid instructors will conduct first aid training sessions for community members. This workshop empowers people with life-saving skills, such as CPR, wound care, and handling emergencies.
Fundraising: Various fundraising events are organized to support our humanitarian work. Lady Grace Sunset Cruise (May 18th):
The Lady Grace Saxophone Sunset Cruise on May 18th will be a memorable event. We’ll set sail, enjoy the beautiful music and breathtaking views. Funds raised will go towards supporting our first aid program.
Dress in Red Day (May 31st): On May 31st, we’ll encourage everyone to participate in “Dress in Red Day.” Islanders, businesses, schools, and organizations can wear red attire to show solidarity with the humanitarian cause. Let’s flood the streets, workplaces, and schools with the vibrant color of compassion and support.
The 3rd Annual Red Hot Challenge You are invited to participate or attend this fun and vibrant sporting event scheduled for June 1, 2024, at the National Stadium in Providenciales. This event brings together individuals, businesses, and the community to support the Red Cross and its humanitarian efforts. Here are the key details:
- Date and Time: Saturday, June 1st, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Location: National Stadium, Providenciales
- Competitions: A total of 20 competitions, including 10 non-athletic games and 10 athletic contests
- Activities: Participants can enjoy a range of activities such as spoon relay races, egg tosses, water balloon tosses, sprints, tug-of-war, arm wrestling, soccer kicks, and more
- Team Participation: Both individuals and corporate teams are welcome. Teams can enter for $1,000 each, with a maximum of 10 participants permitted
- General Admission: Attendees can join in for a $5 general admission fee, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry (accompanied by an adult)
As we celebrate Red Cross month this May we urge you to participate in our activities and consider registering as a volunteer and/or making a donation.
To volunteer visit our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/turksandcaicosislandsredcross?mibextid=ZbWKwL or website: https://www.redcross.org.tc Donations can be directed to our account at FCIB (account number: 10305747) on Islehelp or on our website. Let’s support and salute our Red Cross volunteers who are actively ‘Keeping Humanity Alive’.
#TurksandCaicos, May 2, 2024 – The Department of Gender Affairs is proud to announce the commemoration of International Girls in ICT Day 2024, under the theme “Empowering Girls in ICT: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April.
It aims to encourage and empower girls and young women to consider careers in the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) fields. The day highlights the importance of bridging the gender digital divide and
promoting gender equality in the tech industry.
As part of the celebrations, a dynamic Panel Discussion titled ‘Tech Talks’ has been organized. This discussion will feature prominent women leaders and professionals from the ICT sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands, who will share their experiences, challenges, and successes in the field. This event is designed to inspire and encourage young women to pursue careers in Information Communication and Technology (ICT) by providing them with insights, guidance, and mentorship from accomplished women in the industry.
A special invitation has been extended to girls across all high schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through this initiative, the Department continues its drive to foster interest and enthusiasm for ICT among the next generation of female leaders and innovators.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the world of ICT.
The event will be held at the Paradise Baptist Church, in Five Cays, Providenciales, commencing at 10:30 AM.
The Department of Gender Affairs is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the field of ICT. Through initiatives like International Girls in ICT Day, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
May 2, 2024 – Bēchë, the premier swimwear of the Turks and Caicos, known for its innovative designs, commitment to quality, philanthropy and cultural storytelling, is thrilled to announce its official partnership with the prestigious return of Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting fashion and beauty, with the event scheduled to take place in Providenciales on July 26th and 27th 2024.
As the exclusive swimwear partner for this esteemed pageant, bēchë will be outfitting all contestants with its latest collection curated specifically for each lady. This collection is designed to empower women and celebrate their individuality. This partnership aligns with bēchë’s mission to inspire confidence and elegance through exceptional swimwear that caters to all body types, while telling a story about our nation.
Event Highlights and Swimwear Showcase
Bēchë’s “Miss Universe Turks” designs will be featured during the promotional photoshoots leading up to the event, during the bikini
competition and official photoshoots of the reigning queen. Attendees will witness firsthand the fusion of fashion and poise as the contestants grace the stage in bēchë’s standout pieces, each crafted to highlight the beauty and culture of the Turks and Caicos and our women.
Exclusive Offers and Engagement
In celebration of this partnership, bēchë will offer exclusive promotions and giveaways leading up to and during the event. Pageant attendees and fans worldwide will have the opportunity to engage with both brands through interactive social media campaigns and live-streamed segments of the pageant. The curated collection will be available to the general public for pre-order on the night of the pageant.
A Commitment to Community and Fashion
“Partnering with the Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant is an honor and a testament to our dedication to high-quality, accessible fashion,” said Cyprianna Jackson, Designer and Founder of bēchë. “This event not only highlights the talent and beauty of its participants but also shines a spotlight on the global appeal of inclusive fashion. We are excited to bring our designs to such a dynamic stage and look forward to an ongoing relationship with the pageant.”
The Miss Universe Turks and Caicos organization shares bēchë’s enthusiasm, with National Director Gabriela Clesca stating, “We are truly honored and thrilled to announce the return of the Miss Universe competition to Turks and Caicos after 10 years, alongside our esteemed swimwear partner, bēchë. Together, we’re positioning ourselves to showcase the extraordinary talent and beauty of this island, offering a global stage to showcase the captivating essence of TCI.”
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