Originally built in 1833, the historic Old Courts Building has served the Cayman Islands for generations, housing the country’s first purpose-built courthouse and jailhouse, first post office, government offices, a public library, schoolroom, savings bank and other important public services.
Standing on George Town’s waterfront, the Cayman Islands National Museum occupies the oldest surviving public building in the Cayman Islands. For nearly two centuries, the building has reflected the changing needs of the community, evolving alongside Cayman as the Islands grew from a small seafaring society into the modern nation we know today.
Its location beside the harbour made it a familiar landmark for generations of Caymanian seamen returning home. Before a lighthouse was built, a lantern was raised each evening on a flagpole beside the building to help guide vessels safely into George Town. Important public proclamations were also read from its steps, reinforcing its place at the centre of civic life.
Over the years, the building housed the first post office, the earliest Commissioner’s offices and the first purpose-built courthouse and jailhouse. It also served at different times as a schoolroom, public library, savings bank, church hall and even a dance hall. Its exterior staircase, which once led to the courtroom, gave rise to the Caymanian expression “walking the twelve steps” — a reference to being taken to court.
By the late 20th century, the importance of preserving Cayman’s cultural heritage was becoming increasingly recognised. In 1979, the National Museum was established by law and the Cayman Islands Government acquired more than 900 artefacts collected by Ira Thompson, forming the foundation of what would become the National Collection.
The Old Courts Building was handed over to the Museum Board in 1986, beginning a careful process of restoration and adaptation. Work sought to preserve the historic character of the building, including traditional Caymanian construction techniques such as wattle and daub. Restoration began in earnest in 1989, and the completed building received recognition for the preservation of Caribbean cultural and architectural heritage.
On 17 November 1990, the Cayman Islands National Museum officially opened its doors. The historic building that had once housed courts, government offices and public services was given a new purpose: preserving and sharing the natural and cultural heritage of the Cayman Islands.
Today, the Museum tells Cayman’s story through historic artefacts, natural history, cultural traditions, art and the experiences of the people who shaped the Islands. Yet the building itself remains one of its most important exhibits. Having survived hurricanes, changing governments and almost two centuries of transformation, the Old Courts Building stands as a remarkable physical link between Cayman’s past and present.
Did You Know?
- The building dates back to the 1830s, making it one of Cayman’s oldest public
structures. - It once functioned as a courthouse, jail, and post office all in one.
- It reopened as the National Museum in 1990 after restoration.