Members of two Government Agencies collaborated with officials from the United States to renovate a monument honouring a US naval hero.
The monument, located in Port of Spain, marks where Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry was laid to rest.
The United States Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Candace Bond, described the Perry Gate as a testament to the shared values of the United States and this country.
The Perry Gate is a monument to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who died in 1819 of yellow fever in Trinidad. He was interred at Lapeyrouse Cemetery until 1826 when his remains were removed to Newport, Rhode Island.
“We are rededicating the Perry Gate after a complete refurbishment and repair. This gate stands as a longstanding symbol of respect and remembrance, honouring the sacrifices made by Commodore Perry and countless others who have served their nations with distinction.”
Commander of the US Southern Command, Admiral Alvin Holsey, recounted that Commodore Perry contracted the yellow fever virus on his return trip to Trinidad after visiting Venezuela to meet with Liberator of South America, Simon Bolivar. The meeting was to negotiate an anti-piracy agreement.
“This gate refurbishment is not just a repair project, it represents enduring friendship of the hardworking people of the Port of Spain Corporation, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence engineers, and the team of US Embassy South Comm, who found a way to assist with the funding.”
Port of Spain Mayor, Alderman Chinua Alleyne, reiterated that the Perry Gate is a full embodiment of the growing relationship between this country and the US.
“We look forward to next year as well as this monument turns one hundred years old. It was erected on Easter Monday 1925. So next year, this monument will be celebrating a century.”
The Perry Gate, located along the North wall of the Lapeyrouse Cemetery on Tragarete Road, marks the entrance where Commodore Perry’s body entered the cemetery.