Monuments

Henriquez Building

Category: Oranjestad
Address: Schelpstraat 36-38
Year Built: 19th Century
Open to Public: No
Ownership: Monumentsfund Aruba

This residence was constructed toward the conclusion of the 19th century. It was, along with the adjacent merchant’s house (number 36), constructed in the early 20th century and comprises a two-unit structure.

The building on the left, at # 38, is a traditional town cunucu house with a front patio and inbuilt brick benches. The taller merchant’s house at number 36 likely dates back to the turn of the century.  The ground story of this merchant’s house was used as a warehouse, while the first floor was a dwelling. Most striking feature is the balcony, supported by two columns, and a wooden straight stair leading up to it.

Abelardo Henriquez, the proprietor of this property, was known for being a tailor, ship owner, and merchant. This building was formerly referred to as ‘la casa de la municipalidad’ (the municipal house) due to Henriquez’s substantial contributions to the community.

On April 17, 1997, the Monuments Fund of Aruba successfully acquired the complex from Abelardo Jr. A comprehensive restoration effort was undertaken, ultimately concluding in 2002.

The Henriquez building is the current home of the Monumentenbureau (Monument Office) Aruba.