National Museum of Bermuda celebrates 50 years
The National Museum of Bermuda is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and will be marking the occasion with a number of special offers.
The not-for-profit organisation, created by the Bermuda National Trust in 1974 as the Bermuda Maritime Museum, is located at the Royal Naval Dockyard.
Its team of experts, as well as board members and volunteers, has transformed the once-derelict ramparts, bastions and historical buildings into the museum it is today.
The museum has assembled Bermuda’s largest collection of historical objects — there are more than 80,000 relating to 500 years of local history — partnered with local and overseas institutions to carry out archaeological and historical research, and reimagined historical military buildings as exhibition, education and community spaces, research labs and event venues.
Elena Strong, the executive director, said: “For 50 years, NMB has stepped in to save and secure Bermuda’s past and heritage. Now the museum is home to Bermuda’s cultural past and our collective future, remaining strong thanks to a 50-year history of committed partners, generous donors and determined resolve.
“Thanks to a recent campaign, we are entering a new era, building on strong foundations to shift how history is shared and taught in Bermuda. Upcoming plans include a designated Learning Centre with dynamic, flexible spaces to welcome learners of all ages.
“Critically needed exhibit updates will ensure everyone can find their story at NMB and that Bermuda history is framed in an Atlantic World lens. This helps broaden our understanding of each other and the larger context of Bermuda’s interconnected histories, cultures and influences that shaped the Atlantic region.
“Our expanding and new programmes provide opportunities for students, teachers and lifelong learners to explore Bermuda’s diverse past in ways that build critical and creative thinking skills.
“Major historic preservation projects include transforming the Casemates site into a hub for Atlantic World research and updating our Boat Loft with two new exhibits, putting hundreds more objects on display.
“We continue to stay true to our mission: protecting, interpreting and sharing Bermuda’s history and heritage through our collections, exhibits, publications and programmes, and growing as a vital educational and cultural institution for everyone in Bermuda. The future is bright for NMB. We look forward to the next 50 years.”
The museum opened to the public, starting with the first exhibits in the 1850 Ordnance Building, now the Queen’s Exhibition Hall. Queen Elizabeth II opened the Queen’s Exhibition Hall in 1975.
To celebrate its anniversary, the museum will be rolling out events, activities and special offers throughout the year.
This year also marks the eleventh year of NMB’s Free for February initiative, which offers free admission to the museum for all Bermuda residents during the month.
The second annual free Community Day is planned for February 25. Special cannon firings and other celebratory moments will be highlights of these events.
NMB is also offering a special 50th anniversary discount for new members who join in 2024. Family memberships, usually priced at $75 per year, will be discounted to $50 for the year.
1970s: the museum opened to the public, starting with the first exhibits in the 1850 Ordnance Building, now the Queen’s Exhibition Hall
1980s: it hired its first professional staff and began carrying out archaeological work locally, establishing relationships with overseas academics and field schools. The Bermuda Maritime Museum Press, now the National Museum of Bermuda Press, was established.
1990s: the Corange Laboratory opened with the purpose of artefact conservation
2000s: Commissioner’s House opens after nearly 20 years of restoration and was designated part of Unesco’s Routes of Enslaved People: Resistance, Liberty and Heritage project and the African Diaspora Heritage Trail with the opening of the first large-scale exhibit on enslavement in Bermuda and the Transatlantic slave trade
2010s: the Bermuda Maritime Museum Association Amendment Act was passed in the House of Parliament, changing the museum’s name to the National Museum of Bermuda. The Act also brought the remaining Dockyard fortifications under the museum umbrella, including Casemates Barracks and the Northwest Rampart
2020s: NMB is focused on putting community at the centre of the museum and shifting to participatory-based learning experiences for students, teachers and lifelong learners
For more information on the museum’s 50-year history, visit nmb.bm/50-year-celebration.
Katie Bennett, NMB advancement director, said: “We are so grateful to everyone who has joined us along this journey and to newer friends, all who are helping us usher in a new era at NMB.
“Thank you to our community of volunteers, interns, students, staff, trustees, members and donors. Your support is helping us continue to grow as a vital educational resource and steadfast community partner as we elevate Atlantic World research and thought leadership. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you this year.”
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