In recognition of 2020 as the 400th anniversary of the first sitting of Parliament, the Speaker of the House, the Hon. Dennis Lister, JP, MP, today called on all Bermudians to look through their old documents, photographs and memorabilia.
The Speaker stated, “Next year is a significant year for Bermuda. We have the oldest continuous Parliament outside of Westminster. Celebrating the House of Assembly’s 400th year will be an opportunity for us to reflect on our rich and significant history while looking at our future.
“I am asking every Bermudian to comb through their records and share with us anything you can find about Bermuda’s Parliament and Senate. We are particularly interested in black Members of Parliament and Senators. We have access to traditional historical records, but as we know, historical records don’t always reflect the contributions of all members of society. We have an opportunity highlight all aspects of our history.”
Speaker Lister added, “If you have newspaper clippings, old photographs, essays, records, meeting notes, we welcome them. Our plan is to carefully photograph them, to first preserve them and then use them as part of an exhibition which will be on display next year.
“All documents should be brought to the office of the Clerk to the Legislature, located 4th Floor, Veritas Place, 65 Court Street, Hamilton, HM 12.”
The Speaker concluded, “In addition to the exhibition, the 400th Anniversary Steering Committee is planning a number of events throughout the year. I will make an announcement on these activities in the coming months. I know a number of organizations are also planning commemorative events. Please contact my office and share your dates and activities with us. We will be sure to add your organization’s event to the steering committee’s calendar of events.”