Dear Editor,
It is my belief that the newly constructed venue at Cuffy Square will now be the centre of attraction for many events in the near future. I also understand that a huge stadium will eventually be erected with a 400m synthetic track along with many other facilities. Development is great but sometimes we need to cherish and preserve some old wonders of Guyana.
I have always believed that the National Park, home to many historic events since Independence in 1966 is one of Guyana’s wonders. I just recently thought of the following and perhaps the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport could table this suggestion in Cabinet and consideration could be given towards funding it in the 2017 National Budget.
A museum of photography should be erected within the confines of the National Park displaying photos of historic events over the years, where visitors can take a few moments to go down memory lane. The said museum could be used to house photo exhibitions of the Emancipation Day celebrations, among other exhibitions of a similar nature. I envision such an institution will attract tourists and school visits from all regions. Yes, a small entrance fee should be charged to assist in offsetting expenses with regard to the upkeep of the building, employing staff members, security, etc.
One such historic event I would expect to be included is Mass Games from the early 1980s, and I personally possess a collection of historic photos including ones of the late LFS Burnham, former First Lady Viola Burnham, and a daughter of theirs who was participating. There are also photos of Morag Williams, daughter of archaeologist and artist Denis Williams; government officials, etc, along with the British made vintage vehicle which Queen Elizabeth once sat in during the 1966 Independence state visit.
Another part of such an exhibition which I believe would be a knock-out would be the photos of all the past Miss Diwali beauty queens who were crowned at the National Park.
Yours faithfully,
T Pemberton
