This year our project was to restore an abandoned building in downtown Basseterre to permit it to again be used as a school. It had previously been used as a school, but had been abandoned many years ago, and anything of value removed.
The foundation of the building was estimated to be near 200 years old, having been built from the ballast stones from ships. Knowing that many of the ships in this time period may have carried slaves, the locals are not wanting to lose the history of these stones. The importance of this history was not lost on the team members. They also posed quite a challenge for those who were tasked with installing an emergency exit through a two foot deep stone wall...
The roof was rusted and needed replacement. The local people looked in awe (and maybe a bit of fear) as we replaced the roof.
As the building had sat abandoned, all the electrical need replacing and plumbing repaired. Two new kitchens were built, and bathrooms outfitted and tiled. Termite damage required wood replacement and structural beams reinforced... and then everything got a bright coat of paint!
Currently the school (for 47 children aged 3-5) was operating out of the church building during the week for the past several years. The renovated building not only may accommodate more children, but may also provide better meeting space for church youth activities after school.
We are honored to have been able to work with the people of St. Kitts in moving this project forward!
For more photos - I will attempt to create a slideshow for more easy viewing of everyone's photos - however in the mean time, please use this link to a photo album on Google:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/q9S21gHLZpSvYxNx6
Posts
