The Pumphouse: Let's Rebuild It!
Donation protected
The Pumphouse... Built over 100 years ago for Anguilla’s now extinct salt export industry. In recent decades it’s been a gathering place for enjoying drinks, food, live local music and fun where wonderful memories have been made by many people of all ages, from all over the world.On September 6th 2017, record-setting Hurricane Irma destroyed this beloved, historic building that had previously survived plenty of hurricanes. Not much was left behind, only its original machinery that was used for milling the salt picked from the nearby salt pond and amazingly so, the gorgeous sturdy red heart wooden bar that was hand built when Laurie Gumbs opened The Pumphouse on August 6, 1995.
If this bar could talk…
The Pumphouse was a culmination of Anguilla’s history, in the heart of historical Sandy Ground and a beautifully rustic space for celebrating, dancing, eating, drinking and making memories. Those who’ve visited and spent time at The Pumphouse know of its unique atmosphere, only enhanced by the jovial souls who patronized it over many years.
Besides the bar and historic machinery still standing tall, there were some surviving items plucked from the ruins by those who valued the characteristic Pumphouse décor… License plates of some of the regulars, vintage signs, the antique Charm III rudder table, the black boot, half of the tortoise shell and even a couple of the old salt industry photos that hung on the walls. I know I'd love to see them all together again in this very same spot in Sandy Ground, on the resilient island of Anguilla.
My friends, Laurie and Deb have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, shared sorrow and support for them and toward their iconic Anguilla landmark. Despite the immense loss, there have been silver linings and signs that all point to rebuilding The Pumphouse.
They would love to provide jobs again for their beloved staff, and host tremendous times in Anguilla once more. In order to do that, assistance is needed since there will be no insurance money to help rebuild, or to purchase new kitchen and bar equipment.
How monumental it could be for all who loved it, to come together and help reestablish one of the islands’ most beloved gathering places. The Pumphouse's deep history still exists and this recent natural disaster is now part of its history. How serendipitous it would be, after overcoming months and months of island-wide challenges, for very the spot where many came together in revelry and to raise their spirits, to stand once again.
Late nights with the Musical Brothers, easy going reggae nights, dj nights, annual themed parties, trivia, karaoke, romantic moments, jokes and overall good spirits can live again in the very same spot if many who love it can come together and help fund the rebuild.
For those who don't know: The original building was hand-constructed at the turn of the century by the same shipwrights that built the ships that transported Anguilla's salt for sale. Made of heavy timbers, the building stood for well over a century. It's unique atmosphere was unmatched. If this dream of rebuilding can some true, Laurie and Deb would like to maintain its character and all that made The Pumphouse special, as much as possible.
With assisting via GoFundMe, you can be part of bringing back The Pumphouse. No contribution is too small. Your contributions will go directly to the architecture plans, building materials, labor and new kitchen and bar equipment purchases.
The resurrected Pumphouse would ideally be a structure that is environmentally friendly, secure and as true to the spirit of the original 100+ year old heritage building that meant so much to many people.
Can you imagine Anguilla without The Pumphouse?
If not, please consider helping to bring it back and share this wish campaign with others. Thanks very much for reading and for your consideration.
Organizer
Kristin Bourne
Organizer
Roanoke, VA