Masterclass in Traditional Stone Masonry

Preserving the Past, Building the Future: St. Kitts Launches Intangible Cultural Heritage Knowledge Transfer Initiative

The Department of Creative Economy: Cultural Heritage in St. Kitts has embarked on a significant endeavor to safeguard the nation’s intangible cultural heritage (ICH) through a series of adult knowledge transfer master classes and youth day camps. These initiatives represent a vital step in preserving traditional skills and knowledge that are at risk of fading from memory, ensuring their transmission to future generations. The inaugural master class, focusing on traditional stone masonry, commenced on January 27, 2025, at Wingfield, Old Road, with nine trainees under the tutelage of Master Roosvelt Devent, a seasoned artisan with over three decades of experience.

Mr. Devent, whose expertise was honed during his extensive restoration work at the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, emphasized the urgency of passing down his knowledge. Recognizing the potential loss of these invaluable skills should they not be shared, he underscored the importance of equipping others to carry on the work. Minister Samal Duggins, responsible for Creative Economy: Cultural Heritage, visited the site of the ongoing wall reconstruction project, where Mr. Devent highlighted the significance of preserving traditional building techniques. The Minister echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of ICH in shaping the cultural identity of St. Kitts and Nevis.

The week-long stone masonry master class provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of traditional building practices. Mr. Devent meticulously guided the trainees through the intricacies of the craft, covering essential aspects such as selecting appropriate stones, preparing mortar using the correct proportions of materials, securing cut stones, and the traditional method of "junking" the wall’s center. This hands-on training ensured that participants gained practical experience and a deep appreciation for the artistry involved in traditional stonework.

The Department of Creative Economy: Cultural Heritage has designed a comprehensive program to address various aspects of the nation’s cultural heritage. While the master classes cater to the adult population, the ICH Core Knowledge Transfer day-camp targets younger generations aged 8 to 16. These day camps focus on transmitting traditional folklore, ensuring that these cultural narratives are not lost to time.

The initiative reflects a broader commitment to preserving the tangible and intangible aspects of St. Kitts and Nevis’ cultural heritage. By investing in these knowledge transfer programs, the Department of Creative Economy: Cultural Heritage aims to empower individuals to become custodians of their cultural legacy. The skills and knowledge acquired through these initiatives not only contribute to the preservation of traditional practices but also offer opportunities for economic development, fostering a sense of cultural pride and identity within the community.

Following the successful launch of the stone masonry master class, the department’s next endeavor will focus on traditional coal making. Scheduled to take place from February 1st to 23rd, 2025, this master class will be led by Master Halvor Hendrickson. Participants will learn the time-honored techniques of coal production while gaining an understanding of sustainable practices that protect the natural environment and the habitats of rainforest creatures. This focus on environmentally conscious coal making underscores the department’s commitment to preserving both cultural heritage and the natural environment.

The Department of Creative Economy: Cultural Heritage has made registration for these valuable programs accessible through various channels. Interested individuals can register online by scanning the QR code available on the program flier, which can be found on the department’s Facebook page (@skn ich) and Instagram (@CulturalHeritageSKN). Alternatively, they can register directly through the provided online registration link. These initiatives underscore the department’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that these opportunities are available to all who wish to participate in the preservation of their cultural heritage. The department encourages community members to take advantage of these opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of St. Kitts and Nevis. This initiative represents a proactive and forward-thinking approach to cultural preservation, ensuring that the traditions and skills of the past continue to enrich the present and shape the future.