Many in T&T today do not appreciate how our unique and diverse multi-ethnic history has translated into rich heritage assets that can become the resource for a thriving sector of the economy.
Outside of the normal Caribbean tourism attractions of sun, sea and sand, Trinidad has always looked to its Carnival–the world's largest street party–as its biggest tourist attraction. Tobago, on the other hand, continues to offer a more traditional "island holiday".
There has also been some emphasis on eco-tourism and that seems to be very successful. However, judging from the neglect of our historic buildings and sites, it is clear that we have overlooked the revenue stream that could flow from celebrating our historic patrimony.
The City of London earns an average of �15 million per year and is probably the world's best example of a city that generates substantial tourism revenue from the preservation and management of its historic buildings. Closer to home, there are numerous examples of economically sustainable tourism sites in the Caribbean: Devon Hall in Jamaica, Brimstone Hill in St Kitts, Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua and Sunbury Plantation House in Barbados.
The historic buildings and heritage sites of T&T are the backdrop to our unique culture and there are tremendous rewards to be earned if we were to restore and maintain our historic sites and buildings and put them to adaptive re-use as museums and places of interest.
The combination of architectural designs and detailed craftsmanship make our historic buildings, from the "leepay" hut to Knowsley House, are nothing short of treasured works of art. By preserving them and acknowledging that they comprise our heritage assets, we ensure not only a glimpse into the past but set the tone for our future.
Unfortunately, the majority of these beautiful buildings and sites have been neglected through an ignorance of their importance as historical landmarks and the basis of our cultural identity.
As a result many have either been demolished or are in a terrible state of decay. It is indeed lamentable that oftentimes, the oversight of our heritage assets is inadequate due to a lack this basic understanding of their great value.
Consequently, we may lose the opportunity to tap into their tremendous economic potential. It becomes a moot point whether the attendant neglect of our heritage has also contributed to the decline of our holistic values as a society.
The UNESCO-funded Caribbean Council of Monuments and Sites recognises the Magnificent Seven Historic District, (See photos) the Red House and Fort King George in Tobago on their list of Caribbean Heritage sites. However, the process to formally list any of our historic buildings or heritage sites remains incomplete.
It is imperative that as we mature as a society, we weave the threads of our past and future together to better appreciate the unique nature of T&T.