Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine April 2018 | Page 531

Misha Spanner
“
Proud resident of St. Eustatius, shares
some thoughts about her beloved island.
I
was born on the beautiful Dutch
Caribbean island St. Eustatius (Statia),
better known as the “Golden Rock” or
the “Historical Gem” of the Caribbean.
St. Eustatius is very rich in history and natural
resources such as; our well known dormant
volcano called “The Quill” or the National Parks
such as the “Botanical Garden” and “Boven”
hills. Our waters boast world class diving with
breathtaking marine life, coral reefs, 17th
century and earlier sunken shipwrecks, and
other historical remnants scattered at the
bottom of the sea. Looking for relaxation?
On St. Eustatius, there is blissful peace and
tranquility, life is unhurried, and people are
very friendly. This is just the right medicine
of rejuvenation that people worldwide are
looking for. No wonder many people come to
our island as visitors, and leave as part of the
Statian family.
I am part of the new generations of Statians,
who comes from a big (family) lineage, rich
in Cultural heritage. Our local traditions,
expressions, practices and talents are what
make us “Statians” unique. Our culture is
also diverse, and different nationalities are
also part our melting pot. Growing up on St.
Eustatius at a very young age, I have always
been surrounded by family. I recall having
many fond childhood memories of exploring
the many old historical ruins, finding loads
of beautiful pieces of artifacts dating back to
the early 17th and 18th century, and hearing
fascinating stories about my island’s rich past.
Many of the stories were told to me by my
grandparents, parents, family members and
locals. My late grandfather “Clifford Gibbs”
from my mother’s side of the family noticed
my interest and passion for history, and life on
St. Eustatius in the olden days. He very often
dialogued with me, and shared his childhood
memories, knowledge of the past and his
experience as a sailor. Often times, whenever
historians, archeologists, researchers,
journalists, or writers visited the island, he
was usually sought for assistance to share his
knowledge, expertise and advise.
I am happy and appreciate every bit of
knowledge that I received from him, and
everyone who contributed to my interest,
because today I am working in our historical
Museum as a Museum guide, where I am
able to meet people from all walks of life, and
tell them about my island from all aspects.
I love working at the Museum. I especially
enjoy interacting and touring visitors and
youngsters.