Ascension : Heritage Notes
Submitted by The Islander (Islander Internet Editor) 27.11.2008 (Article Archived on 11.12.2008)

Well, we’ve solved one mystery- the identity of the Tartar Stairs!

Well, we’ve solved one mystery- the identity of the Tartar Stairs!  We’re all very familiar with them; they’re the steps on the Pierhead!  This makes perfect sense, since according to the map, the often referred to Monkey Rock just off the Pierhead is actually called Tartar Rock.  So, is the cannon that is being used as a post on the Pierhead the cannon that was placed near the Tartar Stairs after the pirate incident?  It seems likely, but like so much of Ascension’s fascinating history, we may never know for sure.

At our Heritage Society meeting last Tuesday, we discussed a lot of topics and projects.  We have a lot on the go, and are very excited about the progress we will be able to make in the next year.   Pete & Jill Johnson have been working away in the Archives.  If anyone would like to donate an hour or two of their time to help catalogue photographs and other archival materials, the Johnsons would certainly appreciate it.  They have undertaken a mammoth task.  When it is done, it will make the Heritage Society and Museum a much more professional organization.  We certainly appreciate their efforts.

The design contest for the new Letterbox stamps has closed and the judging will take place soon.  Watch this space for the announcement of the winning designs!  The judging panel can’t wait to see what the school children have designed.  Although we know it will no doubt be terribly difficult to choose the winners.  There is a lot of talent on this island!  Thanks to all the children who participated, and all the parents who supported them.  It is nice to see Islanders of all sizes take an interest in the natural and man-made history of Ascension.  It’s a place unlike any other.