With this formal transfer, Statia Government assumes stewardship of one of the island’s most important heritage landmarks. During the ceremony, the key to Fort Oranje was symbolically handed over, marking the transfer of ownership.
Fort Oranje holds deep historical and cultural significance for Statia. Best known as the site of the First Salute, it remains one of the island’s most important heritage landmarks and a visible part of its national identity.
“The handover of Fort Oranje is more than the transfer of property. It marks the return of a symbol with deep historical and cultural significance for our island. It also shows what can be achieved when partners work together in the interest of Statia,” said Island Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam.
State Secretary Eric van der Burg noted that a historic monument such as Fort Oranje does not belong to a government or to any one individual, but to the people, underscoring the importance of preserving and protecting shared heritage for future generations.
“Fort Oranje is widely known as the site of the First Salute and is one of the best preserved monuments on our island. Yet its story did not end there. Over the years, it has remained the setting for new chapters in Statia’s history, from Statia Day and King’s Day to weddings and major international events. Standing here today as part of that continuing story comes with a great sense of responsibility,” said Island Governor Alida Francis.
The formal transfer of Fort Oranje also supports Statia’s wider efforts to preserve and activate its heritage. Under the Region Deal, Fort Oranje is envisioned as a revitalised heritage site with restored spaces for offices, meetings, exhibitions and small-scale retail, as well as cultural and exhibition spaces, a conference room, a café and other visitor facilities. The plans also include the redevelopment of the surrounding grounds into an attractive public event space with landscaping and memorial elements.
This transfer reflects years of commitment and collaboration by all those who worked to bring this moment about. For Statia Government, it marks not only the transfer of a historic site, but also a renewed responsibility to preserve, protect and activate a place that continues to hold meaning for the island and its people.
