Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine October 2019 | Page 228
Dutch Reformed Church
Some of the old structures on St. Eustatius have been
restored over the years, and lovers of history will enjoy the
stories that are associated with these colonial buildings.
One such building is the Dutch Reformed Church which was
built in 1775 whose tower, standing at three stories made it
the tallest building on the island, offering panoramic views
of the surrounding area. Many denominations have used
this church after its original occupants were no longer on
the island.
On the grounds of the church you will find an old cemetery
with tombstones dating back to 18th century.
Honen Dalim
Wikimedia
The ruins of the second oldest Jewish
synagogue in the Western Hemisphere will be
found in St. Eustatius. The oldest syagogue is
on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao.
Built in 1739, Honen Dalim Synagogue
fell into ruin over time and damage from
persistent hurricanes aided its destruction. Its
walls were restored in 2010, giving people the
opportuity to get a glimpse of where the once
vibrant Jewish community on the island then
congregated. Jews moved to St. Eustatius
Synagogue
around 1660 and were predominantly
involved in trade. Constant military
disruptions and the ensuing economic
uncertainly resulted in an exodus to other
islands. It is thought that the last remaining
Jew on St. Eustatius died in 1846.
A Jewish cemetery remains on the island and
can be found in Oranjestad.
CLICK HERE for a detailed account of the
History of the Jews in St. Eustatius.
Photo Credit: Cees Timmers Photography
Photo Credit: Cees Timmers Photography