CUL DE SAC--The archaeological survey of Emilio Wilson Estate started on Monday. The team of students from St. Maarten Archaeological Centre Simarc is led by archaeologist/director Jay Haviser. The work is slated for completion in three weeks.
The survey is the first step in the planned "Rockland Estate" recreational park. The park will feature eco-tours, chairlifts and zip-lines up to Sentry Hill, the restored old plantation buildings and a museum.
Haviser explained that this was considered "mitigation work" entailing the archaeological survey of areas that would be impacted when the construction started. This survey will ensure there is nothing of historical importance in those areas.
"This way is much better; instead of the work starting and then something of significance is found that warrants a survey," Haviser said. He noted that while the Rockland project was controversial among environmentalists and preservationists, Simarc was carrying out its work of researching places of historical significance.
The developers have complied so far with "all stipulated heritage and archaeological guidelines."
Mapping of the area for the survey started in the lower part of the estate close to L.B. Scott Road. As the days progress, the survey will continue farther up the slope of Sentry Hill behind the main house and factory.
The survey also will test some stories about the estate told in the community. Haviser said: "There are a lot of mixed stories. Some people say 'there were slave huts there ... there were graves there.' Others say 'Emilio said this ... Emilio said that.' There is only one sure way of knowing and that's digging in the ground."
Eight Simarc students on summer break are participating in the survey. Six of the students are employed for the survey, funded by the Rockland developers.
"It is good that this project is creating some employment for youngsters, even for the short period," Haviser said. The project also allows the students to put their theoretical work into practice.
Also on the project is another St. Maartener, Amanda Ferrier, who is home for summer from university in the United States where she is studying anthropology.
The construction period for the US $8 million project will be about one year from groundbreaking to opening of the park, Rain Forest Adventures Chief Engineer John Dalton had told The Daily Herald last month.
Transfer of some 32 hectares of the estate to Rain Forest Adventures from the present owner is "in progress." This should be completed in the coming weeks, after which pre-arranged construction and supply contracts will be consummated and construction will begin in earnest.
Some 10 hectares of the property still are being considered for purchase by government. The recreational business will occupy about four per cent of the entire 436,237-square-metre property.
Environmental and heritage activists are against the Rainforest Adventures project. They continue to advocate for government to buy the entire estate, not a piece, as the entire estate is on the Monument List.
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