The first public lecture hosted by the Grand Bahama Regional Branch of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) series opened to a full house last week. Packed with BNT members, local residents and students, Peter Barratt’s presentation on Taino and Maya civilizations, was described as excellent by many.

“Our meeting started with an amazing turnout. Not only were all chairs taken but we had people standing to hear the lecture on Taino and Maya parallel cultures,” said Shamie Rolle, Chairman of the Grand Bahama Regional Branch of the BNT. “Peter Barratt, the night's speaker was greeted as a beloved historian and member of our community by a standing ovation.”

The lecture delved into the most recent archaeology findings of both Taino and Maya people and shared similarities in religion, art, society, skull deformation and many more. In addition to this, several artifacts were on display for meeting participants to view, some of which were found on Grand Bahama, and Barratt also gave some insight into excavation expeditions on Grand Bahama.

“The success of this lecture also excited members to continue their pursuit of a museum on Grand Bahama showcasing artifacts, paintings, photos, paleontology,” said Rolle. “Think of the addition this will make to the tourist visit and wonderful discoveries of Grand Bahama.”

The Grand Bahama branch is excited to see the return of lecture series. The next lecture will feature Melanie L. J. Stiassny from the American Museum of Natural History, presenting on her book ‘Opulent Oceans’.

“These events are FREE for everyone,” said Lakeshia Anderson, Grand Bahama Parks Manager. “We invite not just our BNT members, but also students and the general public to come out and join them. And of course we encourage everyone to become a member to help us protect our natural resources.”

Chairman Rolle thanked everyone for attending, and expressed his excitement for the start of a series of public presentations, to feature guest speakers every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Visit the BNT on Facebook to learn more about the public lecture series and other BNT events.

The Bahamas National Trust was created by an Act of Parliament in 1959 to build and manage the national park system of the Bahamas. Possibly the only non-governmental organization in the world charged with such a responsibility the TRUST, as it is commonly known works daily to conserve and protect the natural resources of The Bahamas, through stewardship and education for present and future generations. There are currently 27 National Parks managed by the TRUST with more than 1 million acres of marine and terrestrial areas protected. Website: http://www.bnt.bs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bahamas-National-Trust/25034035