Cayman Islands National Museum News: July 2025


Immerse Summer Camp 2025
This July, the National Museum proudly hosted its 8th annual Immerse Summer Camp for campers ages 10–14—and it was a summer to remember!
Over two fun-filled weeks, campers explored daily themes inspired by the Museum’s exhibits, diving into topics like natural history, maritime culture, and Caymanian life in the past.
With hands-on activities, exciting field trips, and sessions led by guest experts, the camp brought our core values—Discover, Learn, Explore, and Create—to life, helping campers build skills, confidence, and lasting memories.
Thank you to all who joined us for this unforgettable experience!

New Donation Honors National Hero Mary Evelyn Wood
The Museum is proud to announce the recent addition of two special items to the national collection: a crocheted and an embroidered handbag, both handmade and once owned by National Hero the Hon. Mary Evelyn Wood, Cert. Hon.
The bags were passed on to Joy Basdeo, MBE, as keepsakes after Mrs. Wood’s passing. Mrs. Basdeo has now generously donated them to the National Museum, where they will be preserved and honored as part of Cayman’s cultural legacy

Minister Rankine Visits the National Museum
We were honoured to welcome Hon. Minister Isaac Rankine and DCO Joan West-Dacres for a special visit to the National Museum. They toured our offices, met with staff, and enjoyed a guided walkthrough of our newest exhibition, Conversations with Popular Art, led by curators Dr. Veerle Poupeye, Megan Arch, Brian Watler Jr., and Al Ebanks. Dr. Poupeye also gave a brief presentation on the Museum’s priorities and upcoming budget needs. We’re grateful for the Minister’s visit and continued support of our culture and heritage.

Turtle Decoy Donated to National Collection
Museum staff, Board Members, Celebrate Cayman representatives, and Mr. and Mrs. Cummins recently gathered in the Cultural History Gallery to commemorate the donation of a 20th-century turtle decoy.
Gifted in celebration of the Seafarers Registry launch, this meaningful addition to the National Collection helps preserve and honour Cayman’s rich maritime heritage.
We are deeply grateful for this generous contribution.

Mango Fest 2025
What an amazing day celebrating Cayman’s favourite fruit! To everyone who came out to taste, dance, cheer, and enjoy—thank you for your energy and support. A special thanks to our incredible sponsors and partners:
Department of Tourism, Hotel Indigo, Kimpton Seafire Resort, Department of Agriculture, and shoutouts to Lobster Pot, Foster’s, and Hotel Indigo for their generous prize donations!
We’re also grateful to the chefs, vendors, and volunteers who made the festival truly special. Here’s to mango magic—until next year!

Safety First at Immerse Summer Camp!
Ahead of camp, our dedicated staff underwent First Aid, CPR, and AED training, as well as Darkness to Light child protection training, to ensure we’re fully prepared to respond in case of an emergency—not just at camp, but at the National Museum year-round. Your safety is always our top priority. We were proud to be fully equipped and ready to provide a safe, supportive environment during Immerse Summer Camp 2025!

Congratulations, Brian Watler Jr.!
A huge congratulations to our very own Brian Watler Jr. on receiving the Outstanding Alumni Award at the 50th Anniversary UCCI Commencement Ceremony!
We are incredibly proud of Brian and all he has achieved—a true example of excellence, dedication, and impact. Well done!

Museum Team on Compass TV!
Our team recently joined Compass TV to share the latest happenings at the National Museum. As the living connection to Cayman’s past, we warmly invite you to visit and explore our stories! We’re open weekdays: 9 AM – 5 PM and on Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM (Residents visit free on Saturdays!) Come discover Cayman’s rich heritage with us! Rewatch the segment
Support our Museum Gift Shop!

Shop Local, Support History
Looking for a unique gift or a special keepsake? The Museum Gift Shop offers a range of locally made items—from Caymanite jewelry and handcrafted soaps to books, posters, mugs, and more. Every purchase supports the preservation of Cayman’s heritage, including the care of the historic Old Courts Building and our national Collection.
Visit us Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM and Saturdays, 10 AM–5 PM

Give the gift of endless inspiration with a Museum Membership—perfect for history lovers and curious minds.
- Individual Membership: $60 CI/year
- Concessionary (Seniors, Juniors, Students): $40 CI/year
- Couples: $90 CI/year
- Families (up to 4 people): $120 CI/year
Enjoy free admission, event invitations, discounts at the Museum Gift Shop and Old Gaol Café, and more. Learn more





