The Central Board of Health (CBH) has brought a piece of Antigua and Barbuda’s past back to life through an elaborate recreation of traditional island living as part of the 2026 National Independence Business Decor Competition.
Organized by the National Events Department, the competition saw CBH staff transform their surroundings into a traditional Antiguan yard, complete with a historic blouse-and-skirt house and displays highlighting the customs, architecture and everyday activities of earlier generations.
The recreation featured flower and backyard gardens, stone heaps, outdoor cooking areas with coal pots, bush tea brewing over open fires, and peanuts and potatoes roasting in traditional fashion.
Other displays highlighted household practices that were once commonplace, including washing dishes at an outdoor dresser, corning pork, and using outdoor showers and latrines.
A donkey box filled with farm produce also served as a reminder of Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural heritage and the resourcefulness of earlier generations.
Traditional childhood games, including warri, marbles, wheelers and telephones made from cans and string, were also featured.
However, the presentation went beyond static displays.
CBH employees participated in live demonstrations, carrying water on their heads, washing dishes outdoors, selling goods from trays and playing traditional games.
Staff also demonstrated traditional hair-straightening methods using an iron heated over coals.
The activities were designed to give visitors a glimpse into the daily routines and social traditions that shaped Antiguan households before modern conveniences became widespread.
According to the CBH, the project was intended to celebrate the country’s cultural identity while preserving memories of how previous generations lived.
The organization credited its employees for contributing their time, creativity and skills to the presentation, describing the effort as a demonstration of teamwork and a shared commitment to cultural preservation.
The initiative formed part of this year’s Independence celebrations, highlighting the importance of passing traditional knowledge and customs on to future generations.
“We didn’t just build a house… we brought an entire way of life back to life,” the CBH said.
Source: Antigua News Room Central Board of Health recreates traditional Antiguan village life for Independence competition.