The significance of our fort systems is often glossed over by all but a few. Certainly, at the local level the general public are not aware of the potential pulling power of these magnificent structures.

In the 17th and 18th century Grenada was in a tug of war situation in which English and French forces alternated their ownership? of the island. The first attempted (British) settlement of the island in 1609 ended in a rout. A second (French) attempt in 1638 met with similar failure. Serious opposition by? indigenous inhabitants caused the newcomers to withdraw. Sustained European settlement was finally achieved (by the French) in 1649 with the construction of a fort in Beausejour and for the next 134 years the island?s fortification network was progressively enlarged to deal with? Anglo-French rivalries in the region. The matter was eventually settled in 1782 when the French Admiral de Grasse was comprehensively defeated by British Admiral Rodney at the Battle of the Saintes (near Dominica). This, and the resulting Treaty of Paris a year later, put a damper on? French ambitions in the West Indies and Grenada remained British for the next 200 years? or so,? until it was granted its? independence in 1974.

Over the years of Anglo French conflict in the region, a network of forts and? batteries? was erected. The main forts were located in and around the capital St George?s and the three most impressive ones still stand to this day : Fort George, Fort Mathew and Fort Frederick . A comprehensive network of batteries was also set up to discourage landings in the rest of the island. The West coast was equipped with a dozen coastal batteries and an additional six batteries were set up on the eastern side. An approach from the west was the preferred selection for an invasion of the island ?whereas ?the strong easterly winds made the east coast less appropriate for a landing. Additional fortifications were also set up in some of the promontories in the south east.

Progressive decommissioning of batteries has all but obliterated them but the main forts in St George?s remain and are well worth visiting.

The story of the Caribs last stand and their leap to certain death is known throughout the Caribbean, yet we struggle to commemorate this chapter in our history with the prominence it deserves. The Trust is seeking to use all available powers to remedy this situation.

Leapers? Hill or caribs? leap

The Island Caribs or Kalinago remain a symbol for the people of Grenada and the Caribbean because of their fierce resistance to European colonization. Thus, the Leapers? Hill site, where more than forty of them jumped to their deaths on the night of 30 May 1650, represents an heroic self sacrifice that left them a legacy of resistance. That bloody event is remembered with reverence throughout Grenada and the Caribbean and continues to hold great symbolism over three centuries later. As such, the site at Leapers? Hill is hallowed ground in the post-Columbian struggles between Amerindians and Europeans for control of the region, and should be accorded the due respect and commemoration it deserves.

To that end, the Grenada National Trust will seek to make this an official national historical site. It is the plan of the GNT to work with the Government of Grenada and other stakeholders, including the local community, to reopen the interpretation centre and develop the site as a primary part of our educational and visitor attraction. The interpretation centre will provide up-to-date information on the history of the Kalinagos in Grenada and their struggles against European invasion. It will host local students on field trips and visitors who come in search of an understanding of this tragic event that left an enduring legacy to the indigenous community. Its ultimate goal is to remove the sadness and anger this solitary hill may evoke, by providing a fitting memorial to the Kalinagos. It will promote their heritage so that we can celebrate those who valiantly fought to defend and preserve their way of life in the face of an unprecedented onslaught against their culture and persons. Please join us in making this endeavour a success by supporting the efforts of the Grenada National Trust.