WILLEMSTAD – The Mondriaan Fund has awarded a grant to Carmabi for the research project “Savonet 1885.” The funding allows the organization to begin an extensive study into the history of Landhuis Savonet and the Bandabou community. A key element of the project is active community involvement, and Carmabi is calling on residents to share stories, photographs, objects and historical knowledge.
Through the Savonet 1885 project, Carmabi aims to explore how the Savonet Museum can develop into a place where Curaçao’s history is not only presented, but also experienced. The research focuses on the year 1885, more than two decades after the abolition of slavery. During this period, many formerly enslaved people were building new lives, while new traditions, crafts and ways of living emerged.
Community holds important pieces of history
While archives provide an important part of the historical record, much knowledge about Savonet and Bandabou remains within the community. Old family photographs, documents, tools, household objects and personal stories can provide valuable insight into daily life in and around Savonet.
Carmabi is therefore seeking contact with people who have a historical connection to Savonet or Bandabou. Residents who practice traditional crafts or know family stories passed down through generations are also encouraged to share their knowledge.
Building a living museum together
The project is not only focused on research but also on collaboration. Carmabi wants the community to play an active role in the future development of the Savonet Museum — not only as a source of historical information, but also as a partner in telling the story of Bandabou.
Historical objects do not necessarily need to be donated. Loans, temporary exhibitions or other forms of cooperation are also possible. The goal is to create a complete and authentic picture of life at Savonet at the end of the nineteenth century.
Community call
Carmabi invites anyone who believes they can contribute to this project to get in touch. Contributions can include sharing historical objects or documents, providing family stories, or offering ideas for the future development of the museum.
Interested individuals can contact Carmabi at s.maduro@carmabi.org.
By collecting knowledge and heritage together, Carmabi hopes to ensure that the history of Savonet is not only preserved, but also becomes a source of inspiration for future generations.
