Dive into the rich history and culture of Bermuda this February, as the National Museum of Bermuda (NMB) warmly welcomes all residents to explore its exhibits and grounds for free, courtesy of the generous sponsorship by Butterfield. In celebration of the Museum’s 50th anniversary and the eleventh year of the “Free for February” community programme, NMB has exciting events lined up this year, including a special Community Day on February 25.
Jody Feldman, Managing Director of Butterfield, expressed pride in supporting NMB:
“Supporting the National Museum of Bermuda is something we are proud to do as it aligns with our commitment to support the wider community. This sponsorship provides an inclusive and meaningful opportunity for us all to learn more about Bermuda’s history and culture, and helps to celebrate the Museum’s 50th anniversary”, said Jody Feldman, Managing Director of Butterfield. “With the Free for February initiative, which coincides with Black History Month, and the other NMB programmes, we encourage everyone to get involved and to make the most of everything NMB has to offer.”
Elena Strong, NMB Executive Director, shared her enthusiasm:
“We are thrilled to have Butterfield’s support this year so that we can open our doors for free to all Bermuda residents during February. At NMB, we aim to make learning Bermuda history part of every educational journey on Island. Eliminating the barrier of admission allows for increased access for residents to engage with and explore Bermuda’s complex and fascinating past. Also, non-profit and private partnerships like this are essential as we carry out our work as a vital community education resource. We look forward to welcoming everyone to NMB this month!”.
Over the past fifty years, a dedicated team of museum and heritage experts has transformed once-derelict ramparts, bastions, and historic buildings into a world-class museum, building Bermuda’s largest collection of historic objects and engaging in archaeological and historical research. In 2013, with the support of the Government of Bermuda, NMB acquired the Casemates complex and expanded to a 16-acre property.
NMB’s permanent exhibits cover 500 years of history, exploring Bermuda’s cultural links with the West Indies and Azores, trans-Atlantic slavery and slavery in Bermuda, Bermuda’s defence heritage, shipwrecks and early Bermuda settlement, the building of Dockyard and much more. The 16-acre fort also offers breathtaking views, massive cannon, local watercraft, the stunning Hall of History mural by Graham Foster and a children’s playground and playhouse.
Don’t miss the chance to experience NMB’s newest temporary art exhibit, FAMILY (FAM, I Love You), a solo photography exhibit by local artist Jayde Gibbons. Through a collection of intimate and candid portraits, Gibbons explores the enduring power of family and community bonds in the face of profound sorrow and bereavement. The exhibit, located on the second floor of Commissioner’s House, captures intimate moments from local funerals and celebrations of life and is Gibbons’ artistic response to NMB’s ongoing community project Bermuda Family Scrapbook.
On the first floor of Commissioner’s House another captivating exhibit is not to be missed. Homestead by Meredith Andrews, showcases vibrant photographs of multi-generational Bermudian families. Featuring 10 large-format, vibrant photographs of Bermudian families in front of their homes the portraits are Andrews’ artistic response to Bermuda Family Scrapbook and capture the fortitude of family life in Bermuda. Both exhibits are part of NMB’s free award-winning community education programme, Tracing Our/Roots/Routes.
Throughout February, visitors to the Museum can pick up a family scavenger hunt at NMB Ticket Office to dive deeper into the Museum’s collection and Bermuda’s history. NMB’s digital Black History in Bermuda tour uses the app Smartify to share contributions of black community leaders and highlights associated significant artefacts on display at the Museum. And, resident NMB yoga teacher Lisa Wingood will be offering a free yoga class on Saturday, 17 February, in honour of Black History Month (register: www.inspireyogalisa.com).
Free for February visitors also have the opportunity to enter a weekly raffle for a chance to win a free family membership, with benefits including unlimited free admission, genealogy research access, savings at participating Dockyard restaurants, Dolphin Quest and Keep the Flow yoga classes, and reciprocal membership to maritime museums affiliated with the International Congress of Maritime Museums.
Save the date for NMB’s free Community Day on February 25, featuring food vendors, door prizes, storytelling, art activities, family yoga, guided tours, and more. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting event: https://nmb.bm/communityday/.
