Today, March 25, 2026, marks eight (8) years since the destruction of the Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) headquarters by a mysterious fire in 2018.
The FRC was situated on one acre of land at Mount Pleasant. The building, reflective of Victorian/Georgian architectural styles, was originally constructed in the early 1900s. Mount Pleasant, located off Calvary Road, commands a panoramic view of the city of Castries and its harbour.
Although all materials accumulated over a period of 45 years and housed at that location were lost, the FRC continues its efforts to rebuild. Despite ongoing spatial constraints, the Centre remains committed to ensuring that the people of Saint Lucia and visitors alike, have continued access to resource materials on our history, cultural heritage, and, in particular, the Kwéyòl language. A recent gift of three paintings from Saint Lucian artist Mr. Neil Paul and his son, depicting Sir Dunstan St. Omer, Sir Derek Walcott, and folk hero Harold Simmons, exemplifies how members of the FRC are supporting the organisation’s efforts to rebuild its cultural exhibits.
The FRC remains resolute in its determination to return to its home at Mount Pleasant. Design plans have been submitted to the Development Control Authority (DCA) for approval. These reconstruction plans will be shared with the public once they have been finalized.