Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Cayman Islands National Museum

History of the Museum Building and Collection

The exhibition galleries of the Cayman Islands National Museum are located in the oldest public building in central George Town, dating back around 180 years. This historic landmark is not only the oldest public building in the Cayman Islands but also one of the few surviving 19th-century structures on the islands. Originally built as the first courthouse and jailhouse, it has also served as the first post office, the earliest Commissioner's offices, a public library, and a savings bank. The Old Courts Building was a hub of community life, hosting a schoolroom, church hall, and dance hall. After a new courthouse was constructed in the 1970s, the building became the Lands and Survey Department's offices until 1986 when it was designated to become the National Museum.

Initially, the museum building consisted of at least two separate structures, later connected by covered passages. The main structure was a single-story, wattle-and-daub building, to which an upper floor of shiplap timber with shutters was added in the style of a Caymanian "manor" or "upstairs house." The second structure, the Gaol, was built of mortared stone.

As the building remains in its original location, the grounds hold significant archaeological importance, likely containing remnants of the islands' earliest history. The Old Courts Building showcases approximately 1% of the National Collection, which includes cultural history, natural history, and art. The collection features boats, furniture, textiles, paintings, basketry, ceramics, tools, and archaeological artifacts.

In honor of the National Museum's 25th anniversary, the Monetary Authority's Currency Division has issued this commemorative coin.

25th Anniversary Logo Design credit: Brian K. Watler, Jr.