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Collections > Archaeological collections
Father Antonius van Koolwijk (1878 – 1880) was the first one to start archaeological research in Curacao. The results of early archaeological research by father Antonius van Koolwijk and his successors were first collected in the depositories of AAINA (NAAM’s predecessor) and afterwards entrusted to the care of NAAM. It concerns collections from Curacao (90%) as well as from the other islands that constitute the Dutch Antilles and Aruba.
NAAM’s archaeological treasures consist of:
- A maritime collection, including artifacts from the cargo of frigate Alphen, which exploded in 1778 in the harbor of Willemstad. Excavations yielded glass, pottery, wood, bone and metal artifacts as well as canons, cannon balls, coins and other historical objects.
- An extensive collection of scientifically important artifacts and data about Pre-Columbian times, serving as a solid base for many scientific publications. This collection is the result of archaeological research, carried out by professionals as H. van Heekeren , C. Dury , E. Boerstra, and J. Haviser. The artifacts include furniture and numerous household items from Landhuis Savonet, recently rescued from total destruction by NAAM in co-operation with other museums and organizations. The collection is being registered and subjected to conservation and restoration before it will be partly exhibited in the Savonet Museum. And while for efficiency reasons various local schools are closing downs, NAAM has been diligently working on saving as many as possible ancient and rare school-related artifacts.
- A slavery heritage collection.
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