Informatie
Whispers of the Past – The Hidden History of St. Eustatius unearths the untold stories of St. Eustatius, a small Dutch Caribbean island with a rich and overlooked history. We embark on a captivating journey through the island’s timeline, from its earliest roots to the present day. At the crossroads of historical narratives and women’s empowerment, we shine a bright light on the often silenced voices of women, stories of strength, survival, and resilience that continue to inspire. These echoes of the past awaken pride in our collective heritage, connecting us to the present. Join us as we embrace history’s whispers to honor, heal, and pave the way for a more sovereign future.
The podcast is live from November 16th 2024 and releases a new episode every new week, for 12 weeks.
Host: Fi de Wit
Episode 1 – Historical Gem – Treasures of the Past
Episode 2 – Aloi Island – Land of the Cashew
Travel back to the pre-colonial era of St. Eustatius, once known as Aloi Island, the ‘Land of the Cashew.’ We discover a vibrant, matriarchal society where powerful women guided their communities, held respected roles as keepers of the land, and established a unique social structure. We learn how women were honored and were vital pillars of their culture.
Guests: Governor Lady Alida Francis, Dr. Zara Anishanslin, Mr. Raimie Richardson, Dr. Joost Morsink
Episode 3 – Finders Keepers
We step into the harrowing truths of the transatlantic enslaved trade, exploring the dual role of women—enduring systemic brutality while acknowledging their resilience and silent uprisings. We also witness the mysterious rise of Sint Eustatius’ blue bead, which, born as a tool of commerce, became a haunting symbol of exploitation as well as a beacon of hope amidst oppression.
Guests: Governor Lady Alida Francis, Dr. Jacqueline Allain, Dr. Zara Anishanslin, Mr. Raimie Richardson, Mrs. Gay Soutekouw
Episode 4 – The Curse and Magic of the Blue Bead
St. Eustatius’ blue beads carry stories of resilience, identity, and survival. Once symbols of African traditions, they became intertwined with the lives of enslaved communities, bridging distant homelands with the island’s harsh realities. This episode sheds light on the darker sides of history while celebrating the strength of memory and culture. Join us as we explore the years 1650–1700, preparing for the island’s dynamic rise in the next chapter.
Guests: Dr. Jacqueline Allain, Dr. Zahidi, Mr. Raimie Richardson, Mrs. Gay Soutekouw
Episode 5 – Shadows of Suffering in Buccaneers Paradise
Enter the paradoxical era of 1700–1750, when St. Eustatius thrived as a bustling trade hub at the cost of enslaved lives. In this turbulent backdrop, both free and enslaved women defied oppression and uncovered how the enigmatic blue bead transcended its role as mere currency, transforming into a powerful emblem of resilience and survival.
Guests: Dr. Jacqueline Allain, Mrs. Gay Soutekouw, Dr. Zara Anishanslin, Dr. Pardis Zahedi, Mr. Raimie Richardson, Dr. Ruud Stelton
