THE HAGUE--Her Excellency Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell met with young Sint Maarten historian Jean-Marc Augusty during his recent research visit to the Netherlands in November.
Augusty conducted historical research at Leiden University in The Hague, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW), with additional sponsorship from the Plantz family, enabling him to extend his stay in the Netherlands for further research.
During his visit, Augusty consulted historical materials at the Nationaal Archief (National Archives) and the University of Amsterdam, including rare maps of St. Maarten. He recently led a plantation tour attended by ministers, parliamentarians, and the Governor of Sint Maarten; an example of his increasing role in documenting and sharing the island’s historical narrative.
Augusty presented the Minister with a 70-page summary of his ongoing research, which currently exceeds 200 pages. A central topic of the meeting was the challenge of securing funding and timely access to information needed for academic research.
Another subject of concern was the erosion of Fort Amsterdam, one of Sint Maarten’s most significant historical sites. While past interventions have slowed deterioration, erosion has resumed. Augusty emphasized the importance of preserving the site and other historical sites on the island.
In addition, Augusty discussed the island’s streets and place names, noting that Philipsburg was originally called Nieuwdorp. He suggested that English naming or explanatory signage could help residents and visitors better understand the stories behind these names.
Minister Arrindell expressed a strong appreciation for Augusty’s dedication and contributions to researching and preserving Sint Maarten’s history.
https://tribune-site.webflow.io//articles/augustys-archival-research-earns-praise-from-minister-plenipotentiary
