From the 18th till the 20th of March, a HERA-CARIB workshop was organised on St. Kitts. This workshop was hosted by the HERA-CARIB Project, the Brimstone Heritage Society, and the St. Christopher National Trust. The workshop is part of the HERA-CARIB Project as well as the ERC-Synergy NEXUS 1492 Project.

The workshop focused on a broad range of topics, including archaeology in St. Kitts, perspectives on Kittitian heritage, methods in Photogrammetry, GIS, and Archaeometry, and sustainable practices of heritage in tourism, education and the environment.  Presentations were given by Kittitians from an array of disciplines as well as researchers from Leiden University, Leuven University, and University of Konstanz.  Phd and Post-doctoral researchers from the HERA-CARIB and Nexus1492 projects presented their research results, provided the unique opportunity to engage the public with their findings.

It was an inspiring experience for all, as academic research was provided a context just as community knowledge was highlighted and proven relevant. Both days ended in a spirited discussion as community members provided feedback and ideas on the importance of disseminating heritage and archaeological knowledge to the entire local community. It was clear that heritage and archaeology are held dear by the participants of the workshop and the Kittitian community at large.

As Mark Twain said, “I’ll never let schooling interfere with my education,” heritage and archaeology are a part of a life-long learning process, intrinsic to a person’s identity and place, vital for engaged citizens and a sustainable community.  All participants are looking forward to tonight’s activity at the National Trust to once again share in this exciting opportunity of collaboration and  exchange.