The Executive Council met at the Old Courthouse on Crocus Hill on the eve of Anguilla Day in a tribute to the island’s strength, pride and resilience.
The beautifully restored building reflects its rich past as a place where past generations made decisions that shaped the island, a statement from the Governor’s Office said.
“Plans are well under way to have the Old Courthouse become [a] museum allowing Anguillians and visitors alike to learn more about Anguilla’s history,” it added.
Records of the Executive Council meetings in 1819 indicate that the building was used as the seat of the council since the early 1700s – about 300 years ago.
Later records in 1825 refer to a major expansion of the building funded by salt revenues which can be seen today in the architectural aspects of the building.
The Old Courthouse has served many functions throughout its history, including being the seat of the local Anguilla council, the court house, post office, treasury and prison.
In 1796, several Anguillians rose up against French invaders after learning that an elder from Wallblake House was being tortured in the Old Courthouse, where prisoners-of-war were held.
In more recent history, though abandoned after the devastating winds of Hurricane Alice in January 1955, the building was used as emergency shelter during subsequent storms.
The Executive Council is the island’s primary decision-making body, comprising the governor, premier and ministers who advise on policy and governance matters.
Following the meeting, members were treated to a guided tour of the historic site.
