Aruba - Monsigneur Niewindtstraat 37

The cultural heritage of large-scale Caribbean plantation slavery was introduced by Afro-Caribbean labor migrants in the 1930s and 1940s. One of the contributions of the Afro-Caribbean migrants was in the field of (wooden) architecture. Although most of the original dwellings of the Caribbean migrants have disappeared, some wooden living houses with typical bread woodwork still exist. Despite overdue maintenance and some alterations, the Peterson house, located at Monsigneur Niewindtstraat 37, is a beautifully preserved example of Afro-Caribbean architecture in San Nicolas, Aruba.

According to both the present owners and independent experts on Aruban architecture, the building is unique on Aruba and deserves recognition and preservation. It has not (yet) been placed on the National Monuments List.
           
The building is owned by the family Peterson. The family has expressed their willingness to contribute to cultural or educational programs. Recognition of Afro-Caribbean cultural heritage would further encourage the awareness of the Afro-Caribbean cultural legacy on Aruba, especially in the (culturally much neglected) San Nicolas area.