(Oranjestad)—On Sunday, several posts surfaced on social media from both locals and tourists showing that the anchor located at the entrance of Colony — famous for its red color — is currently undergoing maintenance and has been painted blue to represent the flag of Aruba.
When the photos surfaced, many in the comments began asking questions about what this development could mean, with some expressing concern about whether the color the anchor was famous for would be permanently removed.
Many noted that the change is meant to commemorate 40 years of Aruba’s Status Aparte, which will be celebrated this month together with Anthem and Flag Day. According to some comments, the anchor will get its red paint back after March 18.
According to Mr. Hilario Doncker — a well-known voice in the Aruban community — explaining on Facebook, the blue color is indeed for the celebration of 40 years of Status Aparte, as well as the fact that this year Charlie’s Bar is celebrating 85 years of existence.
He further explained that in 2005 he painted the anchor red because it was the favorite color of his late father, Charles Brouns Jr., to whom the anchor is dedicated. A user — son of Charles Brouns Jr. — added that one of his father’s goals was to put a spotlight on San Nicolas. After the refinery closed in 1986, it was clear that another economic pillar would be needed in the district, and so the red anchor monument became a well-known site for locals and tourists alike.
As for the change in appearance, however, it could not be verified whether the anchor will be painted red again, and according to Doncker, there will apparently be a press conference before March 18 to address this topic.
San Nicolas preparing to celebrate 40 years of Status Aparte
The new appearance of the anchor is not the only development taking place in the district of San Nicolas in recent weeks.
The government announced in a public statement yesterday the latest cultural developments taking place in preparation for celebrating 40 years of Status Aparte and 50 years of the Anthem and Flag. This includes a new mural dedicated to local artist Julio Bernardo Euson, who represented Aruba internationally and received recognition on the global stage.
According to the statement, this year marks an ideal moment to give recognition to local talent that carries Aruba’s name with pride on the world stage. The mural is located on the Chocolate City building and forms part of a broader cultural environment, the statement said, which will include exhibitions and activities highlighting Euson’s legacy.
Prime Minister Mike Eman pointed out that Euson is an artist of great importance to the island, although many may not know his story and the impact he had on our culture. “He is an artist who has won more international awards than any other Aruban. His music is part of the soul of Aruba,” he indicated.
Editor’s note: Some photos are by Hilario Doncker and Nancy Gallagher on Facebook.
